Sri Divya is a Telugu girl who has carved a niche for herself in Kollywood. In this exclusive interview to IndiaGlitz, the actress fields questions on working with Vishal, doing charitable works, doing a straight film in Telugu, how she wants to be remembered as and more.

How has the response been to 'Rayudu'?

The response has been phenomenal. Even during the making, we were confident about the film's ('Marudhu') success in Tamil, thanks to the nativity factor. However, I was curious about how the Telugu audience will receive it. 'Rayudu' has been the most loved film of Vishal sir since 'Pandem Kodi'. When I watched it in theatres, I was very happy that the audience were clapping for each dialogue, each scene.

What differences do you see between Tollywood and Kollywood as far as you are concerned?

Except for language, there are no differences. I'm comfortable doing both Telugu and Tamil. I have been happy in Tamil, too. I am feeling somewhat sorry that I am not getting enough offers in Telugu. As I have been doing films back-to-back in Tamil, I haven't been able to come to Hyderabad. But I'm looking forward soon to do a good film in Tollywood.

Why are you not doing more films in Telugu than what you are doing in Tamil?

I am very choosy about roles. I have many reasons to love a role. In Tamil, all the roles that I have got to do have been satisfying. I have got many offers in Telugu, but they have no scope for performance. Moreover, as I have been staying in Chennai, it has been difficult to work in Tollywood. I don't want to do any and every role. I hope people have certain expectations from me. I can't disappoint those who trust that all my films are good.

You are fair, while Vishal is dark-skinned. How did your pairing work?

(Smiles). Colour doesn't matter. Nalla bangaram antaru kada. His features are so nice. He has innocence in his face. Telugu audience too like him. I liked him when I watched 'Pandem Kodi'. When I watched 'Vaadu-Veedu', I loved his acting. It's very fun to be with him. He spreads positive vibes and energy on the sets. As a Nadigar Sangham authority, he has been taking several initiatives. I heard that he recently donated Rs. 15 lacs to an old age home. There is so much to learn from him.

You too have been engaged in charitable activities. You have built toilets, for example.

(Smiles). During the December 2015 floods in Chennai, many came forward to do their bit. I too did my bit. We were shooting in Madurai when it happened. The situation in Chennai was indescribable and pathetic. I donated Rs. 10 lacs. I should thank my mom for letting me do that. We were shooting in Rajapalem later. As there were no toilet facilities, Vishal sir felt that everyone in the team should do their bit. I volunteered to build 10 toilets. I will continue to do such things in future as well.

What kind of homework did you do for the role in 'Rayudu'?

I was afraid initially. It's a bold role. I play a pucca village belle. I should walk and talk like a village girl. When the director narrated me the intro scene, I was scared about how the audience might receive it. I slap and shout in the scene. So far, the audience had seen me in soft-core roles. Suddenly, I am different in 'Rayudu'. But the audience are appreciating me totally. I just followed my director's (Mutthaya) walking style, dialogue delivery, etc.

Like Vishal, Rana Daggubati (your 'Bangalore Naatkal' actor) is too tall for you.

(Smiles). Yes, I faced this height problem with Rana garu too.. But he is very friendly with all. He is child-like and one feels very comfortable in his presence. He is very dedicated to his work. He would write the Tamil dialogues in Telugu and study them like a child does his homework.. Even though he is from a star family, he is very friendly. He used to pull my legs.

When are you doing a straight film in Telugu?

I am waiting. There has been a lot of gap after 'Kerintha'. Thankfully, G Hari sir released 'Pencil' and 'Rayudu' in Telugu, and they both have run well here. 'Rayudu' feels like a straight film for me.

How is Sri Divya away from films?

I am different outside and at home. Nobody knows how I am at home.

How have you adapted yourself to Kollywood and Chennai?

When I had to move to Chennai, I was scared because the climate is different there. I am now able to speak in Tamil. I now know a lot of people there.

What is your dream role?

I like Mani Ratnam sir's films. I always wanted to do a film like 'Mouna Ragam' and play the role played by Revathi garu. 'Mallela Theeram' fulfilled that wish.

Who are the directors and heroes with whom you want to work?

I don't have any specific choices among heroes. As for directors, I want to work with Gautham Menon sir and Mani sir.

How do you want to be remembered as?

People should remember me for what I am. I don't like to be compared.

What are your upcoming projects?

'Kashmora' in Tamil is with Karthi sir. There is another film coming up with Jeeva sir.