Ashrita Vemuganti, a Bharatanatyam dancer who made her film debut in director SS Rajamouli’s Baahubali 2: The Conclusion , as Devasena’s sister-in-law, has once again donned the grease paint for director Mahi V Raghav’s Yatra , as late YS Rajasekhara Reddy’s wife Vijayalakshmi.
Though she played a cameo in MCA , Ashrita says: “Technically, Yatra is my next release after Baahubali and honestly, I couldn’t have asked for a better way ahead in this field.” On being selected for the character in Yatra , the Bharatanatyam dancer says that in April 2018, she got a call from co-director Venu for a look test for the role of Vijayalakshmi (known as Vijayamma). “A month later, I got a call confirming the same. I was genuinely happy as I felt it would be a great project to be associated with,” she recalls.
The dancer was nervous initially, but as the shoot began, the energy on the sets was very inspiring. Ashrita gives 100% credit for her look to team Yatra . Meticulous research was done by the costume and make-up artists. “It’s amazing how the screen can transform a person into the required character. The response to the look has been pleasing,” she says. Ashrita, who did not meet Vijayamma during the making of the film, says about her role, “Like they say, behind every successful man is a woman of strength. I felt honoured to portray that person in this film.”
The young actor also feels that it is an honour to share screen space with Malayalam actor Mammootty. “It is a dream come true. I have always admired Mammootty and to be paired with the legendary actor at the beginning of my career is something I am extremely grateful for. There is so much to learn just by observing him. A man with great poise,” she says, clearly awe-struck.
Other memorable experiences on the shoot include heartfelt conversations with Suhasini Maniratnam (who plays the politician Sabitha Indra Reddy). “She is so well read and grounded, I totally look up to her professionalism. Just to be in an atmosphere like this and watch these stalwarts unleash their magic effortlessly in front of the camera was a huge eye-opener,” says Ashrita.
Sharing an anecdote from the shoot, Ashrita says that they had an outdoor scene in the scorching heat with a large crowd gathering. “Mammootty was running a high fever. Yet, he graciously completed the shot and patiently greeted everyone around. I then realised the responsibility that comes with such stardom,” she says.
Ahead of the movie’s release, Ashrita says, “Am looking forward to the response and hoping for the best.”
The Bharatanatyam dancer will be seen next in Vijay Devarakonda-starrer Dear Comrade.
