Director Sriwass's film with actor Gopichand is titled 'Rama Banam'. Set to hit the screens on May 5, the film features Khushbu Sundar in a pivotal supporting role. In this interview, the versatile actress reveals that she plays a woman who is into shoring up the appeal of organic foods in the film. Beyond that, her character seems to be the anchor that holds up the hero's value system. Jagapathi Babu, who plays her husband in the family entertainer, is termed a sweetheart by the star actress.

'Rama Banam' has been described as a family entertainer. What makes it special to you?

The film holds a special place in my heart. The most significant lesson it conveys is the importance of nurturing and enhancing family relationships by jettisoning the urge to accumulate material possessions. Our bond with our family members is the key.

What is your character's name in the movie? Director Sriwass has cast you in the role of the hero's sister-in-law. It seems you enjoyed playing the role.

Bhuvaneshwari (Khushbu's name in the movie) is unique. Her characterization is what drew me to the role. I don't mind playing short roles as long as they are impactful. The director has indeed cast me in a meaty part.

It is said that you are a die-hard Amitabh Bachchan fan. How much do you like him?

True that. I have got his pictures and portraits in my room. When 'Cheeni Kum' was made in Hindi by Tabu, I was green with envy that I didn't get to romance Big B. In Telugu, I feel I should have got to work with Chiranjeevi and Balakrishna at least once. I would definitely like to share screen space with them if I get a chance.

What made you stick to Chennai after the Telugu film industry expanded its base in Hyderabad? Do you regret the decision not to move to Hyderabad?

By the time Tollywood found its footing in Hyderabad, I and my family were well settled in Chennai. By then, I had relocated from Mumbai. I didn't want one more relocation to take place.

Do you have any regrets in your long career spanning 37 years?

I have no regrets. That said, I would have totally loved to essay the role that was eventually played by Meena in 'Chanti' (starring Venkatesh in the lead). The role was offered to me first but I couldn't take it up due to other prior commitments.

What are your political plans? How about your film career if you win as an MLA in Tamil Nadu?

The decision to field me or not will ultimately be the party's. Should I secure a ticket and win in the next Assembly election, I seek to manage all my responsibilities (in the fields of politics and cinema). I have held on to this field as a bankable actor for 37 years only because I am devoted to my job. To me, work is worship.

You feel strongly about South Indian cinema needing to get its due on the national stage. Tell us about that.

In the early days, the film industries down south were based in Madras. The history of South Indian cinema began with them being finding their base in cities like Hyderabad. It is unacceptable if Indian cinema is made all about Bollywood. Indian cinema has got Hindi cinema, Telugu cinema, Tamil cinema, Bengali cinema and many more.

Recently, your role from 'Varisu' was chopped off due to length issues.

Yes. I shot for the movie and my screen time was about 18 minutes, including scenes particularly involving Vijay. It was a call taken by the producer and director to chop off entire segments involving me because keeping some portions wouldn't have felt organic.

When 'Agnyaathavasi' happened to you, you were expected to do more of Telugu.

I am all for doing more work in Telugu. 'Rama Banam', produced by People Media Factory, is a step in that direction. I have also got to work with Gopichand for the first time. I must say he is playfully mischievous. As for 'Agnyaathavasi' not working, it had more to do with the audience not seeing me as Pawan Kalyan's stepmom. It didn't work out.