“Hebah Patel on ‘Odela 2’: A Bigger, Grander Sequel with a Powerful Impact!”
Tamannaah Bhatia is all set to mesmerize the audience in a never-before-seen character in the highly anticipated film ‘Odela 2.’ This supernatural thriller is the sequel to ‘Odela Railway Station.’ Under the supervision of Sampath Nandi, the film is directed by Ashok Teja and produced by D. Madhu under Madhu Creations and Sampath Nandi Teamworks. The promotional content of the film has created a huge buzz. Tamannaah will be seen as a mystical and powerful Naga Sadhvi. Hebah Patel and Vasishta N. Simha play crucial roles in the movie. The teaser has taken the audience’s expectations to the next level. ‘Odela 2’ is set to be one of the biggest attractions this summer and will be released in theaters on April 17. On this occasion, actress Hebah Patel shared insights about the film during a press meet.
Did you expect ‘Odela Railway Station’ to have a sequel when you made the film?
‘Odela Railway Station’ was filmed during the lockdown. Due to COVID-19, all shootings had come to a halt, and no one knew when they would resume. During that uncertain time, Sampath Nandi sir and his team bravely came forward and made ‘Odela.’ Honestly, I didn’t expect a sequel back then. The film turned out to be a massive success, exceeding our expectations. The audience loved it. However, I never imagined that a sequel would be made on such a grand scale. It’s truly overwhelming to see how ‘Odela,’ which started as a small attempt during the pandemic, has now grown into a large-scale project with ‘Odela 2.’
What’s the difference between ‘Odela 1’ and ‘Odela 2’?
‘Odela 1’ was a complete murder mystery, whereas ‘Odela 2’ is a supernatural thriller. ‘Odela 2’ is much bigger in scale compared to the first part, with several amazing elements. The audience will get a great theatrical experience.
How are your scenes with Tamannaah?
I have combination scenes with Tamannaah in this film. She plays my sister. However, I appear mostly in the jail episodes. Just like in the first part, my character in the second part will also leave a strong impact.
How did ‘Kumari 21F’ and ‘Odela’ shape your career?
‘Kumari 21F’ gave me fame, but ‘Odela’ gave me credibility as an actor. It made people believe that I could perform different types of roles. I learned a lot as an actor from ‘Odela.’
How was your experience working with Sampath Nandi?
Sampath sir is a visionary filmmaker. When he first narrated my character in ‘Odela,’ I was shocked. I wondered if I could pull off such a performance-based role. But he encouraged me to give it a try. His trust in me boosted my confidence. He is a very kind and supportive person, and working with him has been a wonderful experience.
What did you learn from Tamannaah?
Tamannaah takes every role very seriously. The way she prepares for a character is something I truly admire. For ‘Odela 2,’ she prepared extensively. When I did ‘Odela,’ I didn’t prepare much for my role. Unlike Tamannaah, I never did that kind of homework. But now, I have learned that I should do more preparation for my roles in the future.
How was it working with director Ashok Teja?
I have been working with him since ‘Odela Railway Station.’ He has great clarity in his direction. Both Sampath Nandi sir and Ashok Teja sir work together as a great team. It was a fantastic experience working with him.
What do you have to say about producer Madhu?
Madhu sir took this project to the next level. He didn’t compromise on anything and made the film on a grand scale. I hope the film achieves great success and brings him even more recognition.
The film’s muhurat was held in Kashi, and the teaser was launched at Kumbh Mela. What is the significance of that?
This story is deeply connected to spirituality and devotion. That’s why we chose such sacred places for important milestones of the film. We believe that divine power is supporting us.
How is Ajaneesh Loknath’s music for the film?
Ajaneesh’s music is a big asset to the film. His background score elevates the film to another level. He has given the perfect music for a supernatural thriller.
How was it working with Vasishta N. Simha?
I first worked with him in ‘Odela 1.’ He is an outstanding actor. When you perform alongside him, you naturally feel inspired to do your best.
You have completed 10 years in the industry. How has your journey been?
It has been a joyful journey with ups and downs. But as an actor, I have always been happy. Success and failure are never final. The only thing in our control is to keep working. I have learned a lot over the years, and I hope to continue acting for another 10 years.
What kind of roles do you want to do in the future?
I have explored many genres so far. But I really want to do a full-fledged comedy entertainer.
What about your upcoming projects?
I have two Telugu films ready for release and a Kannada film that I will start shooting next month.
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