“Little Hearts Is a Fun College Drama- Shivani Nagaram”
After impressing with her debut in Ambajipeta Marriage Band, young actress Shivani Nagaram is back with another refreshing role in Little Hearts. Paired opposite 90s Middle Class Biopic fame Mouli Tanuj, this college drama is directed by Sai Marthand under the ETV Win Originals banner and produced by Aditya Hasan. Backed by Bunny Vasu and Vamsi Nandipati, the film is all set for a grand theatrical release on September 5, including overseas.
In a candid chat, Shivani shared her journey, experiences, and what makes Little Hearts a nostalgic entertainer.
On how she came onboard
“Music director Sinjith Yerramalli is my childhood friend. He first brought the story to me and asked me to listen. When director Sai Marthand narrated it, I instantly connected with the freshness and the way every character was designed. That’s how Little Hearts happened.”
On choosing projects carefully
“After Ambajipeta Marriage Band, I did get offers, but I wanted to be careful. I strongly believe that for audiences to come to theatres, the content has to stand out. So, I waited for the right project, and Little Hearts felt perfect.”
Difference between her films
“Ambajipeta Marriage Band was an emotional love story with depth, while Little Hearts is lighthearted, filled with fun and campus vibes. There’s a love story, but without heavy emotions—it’s more about youthful energy and college nostalgia.”
About her role
“I play Katyayani, a character that feels very natural and relatable. The friendship and love between Akhil and Katyayani will surely remind audiences of their own college experiences. Honestly, I didn’t need much preparation—it felt close to my real life.”
Relating to Katyayani
“Katyayani is very similar to me in real life. I was also an average student during college. Watching Little Hearts will take people back to their student days. This film was designed for theatres from the beginning, and with Bunny Vasu garu and Vamsi Nandipati garu coming onboard, the release is happening on a much bigger scale, even overseas.”
On co-stars and shooting experience
“Mouli started as a content creator, so he’s very active on social media. I directly entered films, so I’m not as active online. Shooting was a blast because most of us were of the same age and bonded like friends. Senior actors like Rajeev Kanakala, Anita Chowdary, Kanchi, and Satyakrishna gave us great support. Rajeev sir’s role will be fun to watch, while Satyakrishna garu and Kanchi garu, who played my parents, made working on this film a memorable experience.”
Nostalgic memories
“This movie reminded me of my own school and college life—it felt like attending a summer camp. Since I studied in girls’ schools and colleges, I never really had opportunities to interact with boys. So, shooting this film gave me that vibe. I’m thankful to Bunny Vasu garu and Vamsi Nandipati garu for believing in the content and treating it as more than just a small film. Also, this being the first theatrical release from ETV Win makes it extra special.”
On the music
“The music is already creating a buzz. My personal favorite is the Rajagaadi song, and Mouli and I had a fun hook step in it. I’m sure audiences will enjoy it on the big screen.”
Career choices & growth
“There’s been a one-year gap since my last release because I wanted to pick the right story. New heroines may have entered during this time, but I don’t compare myself with anyone. I just want to do good films whenever I get the chance. I don’t differentiate between OTT and theatres—eventually, every film reaches OTT. I’m also open to web series if the content excites me.
In Ambajipeta Marriage Band, I had several intense, emotional scenes. But in Little Hearts, I got to explore a fun and entertaining side. I’d love to do more romantic comedies in the future.”
Upcoming projects
“Up next, I’ll be seen opposite Suhas in Hey Bhagavan, a complete laugh riot. The glimpse is already out, and the shoot is almost done. Apart from that, I have two more projects lined up.”
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