EXCLUSIVE: “Got To Work With South Superstars Early While They Were Doing Their 2nd-3rd Films” – Genelia Deshmukh
In a candid conversation with Instant Bollywood, Sitaare Zameen Par actress Genelia Deshmukh opened up about her memorable journey in the South Indian film industry.
EXCLUSIVE: “Got To Work With South Superstars Early While They Were Doing Their 2nd-3rd Films” – Genelia Deshmukh
Genelia spoke with warmth and nostalgia about working with some of today’s biggest names, long before they became household Pan-Indian legends.
She recalled her early collaborations with Jr. NTR, Allu Arjun, and SS Rajamouli. These are names that now command massive fan followings across the country. What’s special is that Genelia worked with these stars when they were just starting out, often during their second or third films.
“I’ve had the best time in the South industry. I’ve really had a blast. I’ve got some of my best work from there, and I’ve had the opportunity to work with all these Superstars when they were doing their second film or their third film. It’s a matter of pride when I see them today, when I see a Pushpa, when I see Jr. NTR and Rajamouli Sir and Baahubali.”
Genelia isn’t just proud of their success. What touched her most were the roles she got to play and the people she met along the way.
“It’s a matter of pride knowing that I was once part of all of this. But it’s not about the fame, it was about the interaction, it’s about the character. That was my takeaway from all of it.”
“I Didn’t Put One Industry Above The Other” – Says Genelia
She also expressed her wish for a more united approach when it comes to Indian cinema. Genelia, who has worked in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Marathi films, believes that the industry should be seen as one and not divided by language or region.
“I wish we didn’t pitch it like South vs. Bollywood. I wish we didn’t term films as South industry, North industry, Marathi industry, Bollywood,” she said. “I loved acting. I didn’t see language as a reason to not go there (South). I didn’t put one industry above the other.”
It is this open-mindedness that made Genelia a pan-India favourite. It’s clear that for her, storytelling will always matter more than stardom.
(Also Read: Sitaare Zameen Par Movie Review; Funny, Heartwarming & Sensitive Without Being Preachy)
