My Role as Damini in Oh! Sukumari Is Fresh & Unique – Aishwarya Rajesh
“My character Damini in Oh! Sukumari is unlike anything I’ve done before. It’s a cute village entertainer packed with fun, emotions, and a refreshing concept. I’m sure audiences will thoroughly enjoy the film,” says Aishwarya Rajesh.
Talented actress Aishwarya Rajesh is all set to entertain audiences alongside young actor Thiruveer in the upcoming village family entertainer Oh! Sukumari. Directed by debutant Bharath Darshan and produced by Maheshwar Reddy Mooli under the Ganga Entertainments banner, the film is gearing up for a grand theatrical release on July 17 in Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi. Following the positive response to its first look, teaser, songs, and trailer, expectations for the film have grown significantly.
Speaking to the media ahead of the release, Aishwarya Rajesh shared interesting insights about the film, her character, and her career.
How did Oh! Sukumari happen?
Producer Maheshwar Reddy first approached me with the project. Director Bharath Darshan narrated the story, and later I read the complete script. I found the concept very fresh and different, which made me immediately want to be a part of the film.
Tell us about your character Damini.
Damini is a very unique character with an interesting characterization. As shown in the promotions, anyone who touches her gets an electric shock (laughs). That unusual trait makes the character even more entertaining. The story largely revolves around Damini’s journey, and I believe audiences will enjoy every bit of it.
How do you feel about working with debut directors?
Every filmmaker is new at some point. In fact, I have worked with many first-time directors throughout my career. What matters most to me is the way they narrate the story and the confidence they have in their vision.
We hear you have a good understanding of filmmaking as well.
I wouldn’t say I’m an expert, but after spending so many years in the industry, I have gained knowledge about every department. I believe there’s nothing wrong with sharing ideas or listening to suggestions if it benefits the film.
Even after the commercial blockbuster Sankranthiki Vasthunnam, you continue choosing unconventional roles. How do you look at success and failure?
I delivered five consecutive hits in Tamil, and during that time our home was filled with bouquets. The following year, I had only two hits, and naturally the number of bouquets reduced. But whether there are many bouquets or none at all, I remain the same. I’ve learned to move forward with confidence regardless of success or failure.
Does Oh! Sukumari have a political backdrop?
Thiruveer plays a young man who dreams of becoming a corporator. The story revolves around two brothers, and their father decides to give his property to whichever son has a child first. Around that time, my character enters his life. Since Damini gives an electric shock whenever someone touches her, a series of hilarious and emotional events unfold. The screenplay is highly entertaining.
How was it working with Thiruveer?
Thiruveer is a wonderful actor who performs very naturally. After Tuck Jagadish, it was a pleasure working with him once again.
Your thoughts on producer Maheshwar Reddy?
Maheshwar Reddy always believes in backing fresh concepts. He approached me with this unique story, and I sincerely hope the film becomes a huge success for him.
Tell us about the music.
The music composed by Bharath is very refreshing. The songs are pleasant to hear and visually beautiful as well. They perfectly complement the mood of the film.
Is speaking in the Telangana dialect difficult for you?
Not at all. Since I’m a Telugu girl, I feel comfortable speaking in different Telugu dialects. I also enjoy performing in various accents across Telugu and Tamil films, and I consider myself fortunate to get such opportunities.
You are also doing several web series.
I don’t want to limit myself to just films. Web series have a huge global reach. My series Suzhal received tremendous appreciation worldwide, and people even spoke to me about it during my international trips. It was released in 34 languages. Currently, I’m working on one project for Amazon and another web series for Disney+ Hotstar.
Do you prefer experimenting with different characters?
Absolutely. When I entered the industry, many people used to say a heroine’s career lasts only three years. I believed that initially and wanted to do as many films as possible (laughs). So far, I’ve acted in nearly 50 films, and I genuinely loved almost every role I’ve played.
What kind of roles do you want to explore in the future?
I haven’t played many negative-shaded characters yet. I’d love to portray a powerful role like Neelambari. I’m also interested in playing psychologically intense characters driven by obsession.
What would you like to say to the audience?
Oh! Sukumari is a cute village family entertainer filled with fun, emotions, and a refreshing concept. It’s a film that the whole family can enjoy together. I hope audiences watch it in theatres and shower it with their love.
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