Project with big star is best birthday gift: Sreeleela

One-film-old actor Sreeleela, who celebrates her birthday today, couldn’t have asked for a better birthday gift. The youngster, who has been hoping for a break, has bagged a film with Chethan Kumar that could be her ticket to success. The actor, whose debut film, AP Arjun’s KISS, is yet to be released, will feature opposite Sriimurali in her second film. This yet-to-be-titled project has come her way even before the audience get a glimpse of her on big screen.

The youngster, who is trying to manage her studies and career together, was on cloud nine when CE spoke with her. “A project with one of Kannada cinema’s stars, Sriimurali, is such a wonderful birthday gift,” she says, adding, “It comes as a surprise. And it’s the best I could ask for. I felt like a princess when I was told that I had bagged this project. In fact, after I signed on the dotted line, I was jumping with excitement saying, ‘Oh, I can’t believe it! I’m acting with Sriimurali, and I am the heroine of this film...someone pinch me!’,” she says.

Sreeleela says she always dreamt of working with the top stars of the industry, including Sriimurali. “I know I have a long way to go, but I had never expected to work with a star so early in my career. It feels like the universe has granted my wish. I feel very lucky at this moment,” says the newcomer, who recently did a test shoot with the actor. “After a few rounds of audition, I was asked to go in for a test shoot. The vibes on the sets were good. Sriimurali made me feel very comfortable, and there was an instant connect with the actor,” she adds.

The actor says she has had other offers from Kannada and Telugu cinema, but decided to take them forward only after the release of her first film. However, when a film with Sriimurali came her way, she could not resist it. “This project will definitely be a good learning process for me, especially since it involves a big star. I can’t wait for the project to begin,” she says.

Director’s take

While Sriimurali’s project is yet to find a suitable title, the makers are happy to have a found the right lead cast for their film. Director Chethan Kumar tells us, “Sreeleela has a family charm, which works for the film which is a complete family entertainer. She comes across as a girl-next-door. In fact, I have watched the rushes of her first film (currently being directed by AP Arjun) and she seems to be a good performer. Everyone believes she is the perfect choice,” he says.  

A Bharathayatam and Kuchupudi dancer, Sreeleela also plays the veena, in addition to being a state level runner, swimmer and horse-rider. “She did many rounds of auditions and a test shoot before she was finalised. The two make a fresh pair,” says Chethan adding, “This film will give her a chance to explore her versatility since she has four  dimensions--homely, classical, trendy and royal– to her character.”  

With Sriimurali's last three films--Ugranm, Rathaavara and the latest Mufti--turning out to be hits, and the director having two hits--Bahaddhur and Bharjari--to his credit, their project together will be eagerly awaited.