The film Shaashtipoorthi, starring Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Archana, with Rupesh and Aakanksha Singh in the lead roles and directed by Pawan Prabha, is produced under the MAA AAIE Productions banner by Rupesh. The movie is set to release on the 30th of this month. The already-released songs, teaser, and trailer have raised audience expectations. Aakanksha Singh, who impressed Telugu audiences with projects like Malli Raava, Devadas, and Parampara, is now coming with Shaashtipoorthi. As part of the film’s promotions, she interacted with the media. Here are some key highlights from what she shared:
⸻
“I’m returning to Telugu cinema after quite a gap. The pandemic caused a big break for me. Initially, it was planned to release Meet Cute, directed by Nani’s sister Deepti Ganta, in theaters, but it eventually came out on OTT. Now Shaashtipoorthi is getting a theatrical release. The film is wonderful and technically top-notch. Ilaiyaraaja’s music is sure to impress everyone.”
“In Shaashtipoorthi, I play a character named Janaki. I came to Hyderabad to listen to the story, and the moment I heard it and learned about my role, I agreed to do it. Stories like this are very much needed today. I played the role of a rural girl and will be seen as a temple treasurer. I appear as a traditional Telugu woman in this film.”
“Until now, I never played a full-fledged traditional Telugu girl. I hadn’t worn a langavoni (traditional South Indian attire) before. We shot in Rajahmundry for over a month. I will never forget the Godavari regions. We worked really hard under the scorching sun and even traveled in boats. Those memories will stay with me forever. The beauty of the Godavari was captured even more beautifully on screen.”
“I acted with Rajendra Prasad sir earlier in Bench Life. I got to act with him again in this film. Working with him taught me a lot. Whenever we acted together, we never used glycerin for emotional scenes – we performed them naturally. Working on Shaashtipoorthi felt like attending an acting school. I learned so much through this film.”
“Shaashtipoorthi is not just about the concept of ‘shaashtipoorthi’ (the 60th birthday celebration). It includes a variety of themes. Also, I don’t just play a typical heroine in this movie. My character has many layers, which I can’t reveal now – you have to watch the film to discover them.”
“Our producer Rupesh is a great person, very passionate about cinema. Not only as an actor but also as a producer, he did complete justice to the film. He brought everyone together and made such a great film. Our director Pawan has great clarity and vision. He has a strong grip on the story. It was a pleasure working with him.”
“I always wanted people to recognize me as a good actress. That’s why I’ve been selective about strong roles and good stories. I believe Shaashtipoorthi will earn me even more appreciation. If I like the story and my character, I’m open to working in OTT or web series too. If we do our work sincerely, opportunities will find us on their own.”
“I want to explore all kinds of roles and genres. I especially love action films. I’m currently doing one and it’s coming out really well. I’m also looking into a Tamil film. I really like Nani’s movies. Recently, I watched Amaran.”
“The songs and music of Shaashtipoorthi will move everyone. Each song carries an emotion. Ilaiyaraaja sir’s songs are timeless. This is a film that families should watch together. It’s a must-watch for everyone. The film conveys a great message about parents, so please watch and support it. While shooting for this movie, I was reminded of my father a lot. I really missed him. Spend more time with your parents, love them. Everyone, please do watch Shaashtipoorthi.”
