KISS boosts Sreeleela's confidence

Sreeleela, who is busy hopping from one college to another promoting KISS, is liking the vibes surrounding her debut film. "I have family members, and college friends, coming from all over the world to watch me on the silver screen on September 27. All the encouragement is giving me both joy and anxiety," she says.

Sreeleela had initially pegged modelling as a career option, and had no plans of acting. The journey of becoming a heroine, she says, happened only because of director AP Arjun and his team. "KISS was my film school and the director was my mentor. I remember going to his office with no makeup, and they thought I looked natural and apt for the subject. I can't forget my first day. When asked to face the camera, I went and stood behind the monitor. Then, when I was asked to give a suggestion shot, I stood in front of the director, waiting for him to give me a suggestion. I had no idea about the technicalities," the actor recalls.

"There was one dialogue which had the word 'Aramane', and I mentioned it as Armani. During an emotional scene, even after the director had said 'cut', I just sat there soaking in the feeling," says Sreeleela, adding, "The best part was, they let me be myself, and it helped build my confidence. I will take home a lot of memories from this film."

Meanwhile, Sreeleela has also completed the shoot for her second film, Bharaate, which is slated for an October release. She is currently enjoying the attention and wants to keep it going. "When I started, I wasn't completely sure that people would want to see me in cinema. But, going by the huge response I am getting before the release of KISS, I feel this is where I belong."

Sreeleela believes being a heroine is a huge responsibility. "It is not easy being a public figure. I want to use it in the best way possible. I was always interested in women empowerment campaigns, and being an actor has opened a wider door for me. An opportunity for people to understand me and vice versa," she signs off.