Sandalwood actress Rashmika Mandanna is going to be seen in 'Chalo', which releases on Feb 2. In this interview, she talks about her debut Telugu movie, what her character is about, why she rejected the Telugu remake of a Kannada hit of hers, and more.

What is your background and how did 'Chalo' fall into place for you?

I hail from a place called Coorg in Karnataka. I had studied there up to Class X. I later moved to Mysore to complete Intermediate. While I was doing my graduation in Bengaluru, I participated in a contest for the best fresh face. Because of this exposure, I bagged the Kannada film 'Kirik Party. It's because of that film that 'Chalo' happened to me.

'Chalo' has been directed by a new maker. What made you repose confidence in the project and choose it as your launching pad?

I liked the script a lot. Next, I liked the entire team. That made me go in for this film. Having worked on this film, I can tell you that the production values are superb.

Going by the film's trailer, you seem to have played a girl-next-door. Isn't it?

I will be seen in a traditional, college-going girl. In that sense, it's a role with which every girl can relate to. It was my conscious decision to essay such a character. Moreover, the story itself is quite rooted in reality. Since I am a college student myself, playing the part was not so difficult.

Why the title 'Chalo'?

The title is justified. You will understand it when you watch the scenes between my character and Naga Shourya's.

It's not easy to dub in an alien language. How was the experience?

It was possible because director Venky used to give me the papers related to particular scenes a day before the shoot. That gave me a chance to analyze the part. While dubbing, an assistant director helped me with the delivery. I had some reservations before the dubbing. I told my director that I will go ahead only if he likes my dubbing. And I gave my best shot.

What do you do in your free time? Who is your favourite heroine and why?

I always like to keep myself occupied. I don't give myself free time. I like to work hard. I like Anushka a lot. I like her for the varied roles that she plays. I prefer to choose those films whose script is strong.

'Kirik Party' has been remade in Telugu. Why didn't you do the film even though you were approached for it? How is it to juggle between Telugu and Kannada cinemas?

I don't want to repeat my acting. That's why I rejected it even though the makers had approached me. The language is a bit of a problem. I am forgetting Telugu while in Karnataka and Kannada after I go back from here.

What is your next film in Telugu?

I am acting opposite Vijay Devarakonda for a Geetha Arts movie directed by Parusuram. A few projects are in the talking stage.