If any actor gets their first breakthrough role in a star-studded film, the experience would be surreal. That is exactly how Rachana Rai feels, as she is still adjusting to the reality of making her debut with The Devil and sharing the screen with Darshan.
“Whatever credit or love I am receiving from the audience and fans entirely goes to director Prakash Veer sir and Challenging Star Darshan,” she says, and adds, “Darshan sir has always believed in giving opportunities to Kannada heroines and artistes. Even for technicians, he gives preference to our people. I got the chance through auditions."
Her first reaction to being part of the project was a mix of excitement and focus. “Honestly, I didn’t even know it was Darshan’s film when I first heard about it. I only knew Prakash sir was directing it. I considered Prakash sir’s previous films like Milana and Vamshi, and gave my 100 per cent. When I came to know it was a Darshan film, I knew there would be many heroines who would line up wanting to work with him. I'm glad I got picked for this performance-oriented role," says Rachana Rai, who is looking forward to the film's release on December 11. The film made under Shri Jaimatha Combines, and Prakash Veer's wife Thashwini as executive producer and stylist, has Kanthraj penning the dialogues, Sudhakar S Raj handling cinematography, and Ajaneesh Loknath composing the music.
With Darshan unavailable for promotions due to his legal troubles, Rachana and team of The Devil have stepped up to connect with the audience. “It is part of an actor’s responsibility. Even after shooting, the work doesn’t stop. Promotions matter. There’s no pressure; it is our cinema. Of course, if Darshan is around, it is like the strength of 100 elephants, but this responsibility has been taken on by his fans and the team. Every film of his has been paisa vasool. This film, every scene, is made for the fans, and it will be celebrated.”
While details of Rachana’s character remain under wraps, the glamour song ('Onde Ondu Sala') has already created a buzz. “I was told about the song before the shoot, and I was aware of it. From the moment I met Darshan sir, he made sure I was comfortable. I did my homework. Working with him was an opportunity I wanted to utilise fully. In any situation, any challenge, I didn’t feel any difficulty as he gave me space, let me make mistakes, and helped me learn. Prakash sir is always calm; he rarely gets angry, and he makes sure the actors stay comfortable while taking exactly what he wants from their performance.”
Talking about her space in a star film, Rachana adds, “This is Prakash sir’s universe. Every artist has weight in their respective characters. The auditions were conducted to find actors who suited the roles. I can’t reveal my full characterisation, but she is bold, beautiful, bubbly, and a supportive system for the hero and the film.”
Off-screen, Rachana shares that she has been impressed with Darshan’s personality. “Apart from his conversations about films and cars, Darshan sir is an encyclopedia when it comes to animals. I am a fan, and the animal lover in him has made me a lifelong admirer.”
Rachana also reveals that meeting and interacting with Darshan’s fans was an emotional highlight. “The way they are supporting the film, calling me the ‘Devil Queen,’ and shouting the DBoss slogan, it was a dream come true. We all work in the cinema to earn some love, and I have been receiving it right from my first film. They will stay with me forever,” she concludes.