PremiumGangs of Godavari's Neha Sshetty Interview - 'I copied Shobana Garu's style and look for the film'
Gangs of Godavari has Vishwak Sen as the main lead and is all set to hit screens on May 31, 2024.
Neha Sshetty
Last Updated: 05.41 PM, May 29, 2024
Vishwak Sen's Gangs of Godavari is all set to hit screens on May 31, 2024. Neha Sshetty plays the female lead, and she talks to us about her role, working in a period film, wearing sarees, career choices, and wanting to be an actress since she was five. Here is the transcript.
Neha Sshetty Interview
What made you sign the film Gangs of Godavari?
Gangs of Godavari was offered to me long ago. Director Krishna Chaitanya came to me with the script. I am the one who asked for detailed narrations and did the same for this film as well. The way my character transforms in the second half was conceived so nicely. As it had a lot of scope for me to perform, I went all out and gave my best for the film.
Tell us about your role in the film...
I play Bujji, a beautiful girl from a very rich family, in Gangs of Godavari. As shown in the promos, she is vulnerable and elegant. But the way she transforms into a strong woman is one of the highlights of the film. This aspect has been kept away from the teasers and will be one of the highlights of Gangs of Godavari.
Tell us about your preparation for playing a yesteryear girl...
As the film is set in the 1990s, director Krishna Chaitanya gave me the reference of actress Shobana Garu. The way she used to dress in films, draped sarees, and wore jewellery, I copied her and got the look right. When it comes to emoting the character, there was something special about the 1990s. I had to be subtle and showcase my emotions in a very loud manner. It was tough, but I loved every bit of it.
What was it like working with Anjali?
She is senior to me and has been around for a long time. In real life, Anjali is a very jovial and bubbly girl. I have a few combination scenes with her. Even when there is a tense scene, she is seen joking around, and I am the opposite—I like to be aloof and get my act right. I loved working with her.
What about the hero, Vishwak Sen?
Vishwak Sen and I have known each other for a long time. Everyone says we share a sizzling chemistry on screen, and this happened only because I knew him before. He has given a stupendous performance in the film and will be a huge star after the release of Gangs of Godavari. Watch out for him in a never-before-seen avatar.
You look gorgeous in the film? Tell us about the special care taken...
Yes, ever since the promo came out, I have been showered with a lot of compliments on my looks. I always thought that I was way too slim and would never look good in sarees. But for Gangs of Godavari, I was asked to wear sarees throughout the film. One of my designers selected a special kind of saree famous in the Godavari region. At first, I was a bit edgy, but later on, I carried the look quite well.
Tell us about your director, Krishna Chaitanya...
He is a man of few words, but his talent speaks for itself. He came in with a limited script and executed the film superbly. The way he has etched each character in the film will haunt you even after you walk out of the theatre. Gangs of Godavari is his best work to date. He has created something stunning, and I cannot wait for you all to watch it.
Did you always want to be an actress?
Yes, ever since the age of 5, I wanted to be an actress. I loved cinema, adored all the heroines and used to dress and act like them. I have trained to become an actress and here I am pursuing my dream and doing some of the best films in South India. In the days to come, you will see me in even better roles.
Tell us about your future projects...
I have signed a film with Bellamkonda Sreenivas. It is halfway through its shoot and I am yet to start my part. To be frank, I am not getting proper roles and have pinned a lot on Gangs of Godavari. I feel that the film will take me to the next level in my career for sure.