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Hans India
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Aakanksha Singh Praises ‘Shaashtipoorthi' Experience
The film 'Shaashtipoorthi', starring Dr Rajendra Prasad and Archana, with Rupesh and Aakanksha Singh in 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 returning with 'Shaashtipoorthi'. As part of the film's promotions, she interacted with the media. Here are some key highlights from what she shared: Q: You're returning to Telugu cinema after a while. How does it feel? Yes, it's been quite a gap. The pandemic created a long break for me. I had a project titled 'Meet Cute', directed by Nani's sister Deepti Ganta, which was initially planned for a theatrical release, but it eventually came out on OTT. Now, 'Shaashtipoorthi' is getting a proper theatrical release, and I'm thrilled about it. The film is technically top-notch, and Ilaiyaraaja sir's music is something everyone will love. Q: Tell us about your role in 'Shaashtipoorthi'? I play a character named Janaki. I came to Hyderabad to hear the story, and the moment I listened to it and understood my character, I immediately agreed. Stories like this are very important today. I portray a rural girl who works as a temple treasurer—a full-fledged traditional Telugu woman. I hadn't worn a langavoni before or played such a role, so it was a completely new experience for me. Q: How was the shooting experience, especially in the Godavari region? We shot in Rajahmundry for over a month. I will never forget the Godavari regions. We worked really hard under the scorching sun, travelled by boats, and truly experienced rural life. The beauty of the Godavari was captured even more beautifully on screen. These are memories I'll cherish forever. Q: You've worked with Rajendra Prasad before. How was it working with him again? Yes, I worked with him earlier in 'Bench Life'. Sharing screen space with him again was a great learning experience. He brings so much honesty to emotional scenes—no glycerin, just pure performance. Working with him on 'Shaashtipoorthi' truly felt like attending an acting school. I learned so much. Q: The title 'Shaashtipoorthi' suggests a theme around 60th birthday celebrations. Is that all the film covers? Not at all. While the term refers to a 60th birthday, the film has so much more to offer. It explores multiple themes and emotions. My role is not a typical heroine's role—it's layered and meaningful. I can't reveal too much, but you'll have to watch the film to see what I mean. Q: How was it working with director Pawan Prabha and producer Rupesh? Our producer Rupesh is not only a passionate actor but also a dedicated producer. He brought everyone together and ensured the film came out beautifully. Director Pawan has great clarity and a solid grip on storytelling. Working with him was a pleasure—he knew exactly what he wanted from each scene. Q: You've often chosen strong roles. Is that a conscious decision? Absolutely. I've always wanted to be known as a good actress, so I've been selective about the roles I take up. I believe 'Shaashtipoorthi' will earn me even more appreciation. If I connect with a story and character, I'm open to OTT and web series too. When we work sincerely, opportunities naturally come our way.
The Hindu
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Aakanksha Singh returns to Telugu cinema with ‘Shashtipoorthi'
The Hindi film Runway 34 and the web series Khakee: The Bengal Chapter have made Aakanksha Singh more recognisable across the country. But those familiar with Telugu cinema will remember her quiet charm in the coming-of-age romance Malli Raava, the comedy Devadas, and the anthology Meet Cute. In Hyderabad to promote her new film Shashtipoorthi, set to release on May 30, Aakanksha smiles at the mention of these roles: 'I have been lucky to get these projects. People still talk about Malli Raava — it has become a bit of a cult romance over time.' Why have we not seen more of her in Telugu films? 'That is something I keep asking too,' she laughs. 'I have had some good offers, thankfully. Maybe it's all just timing. But yes, I would love to do more work here.' Directed by Pavan Prabha, Shashtipoorthi stars Aakanksha alongside Rupeysh, with veteran actors Rajendra Prasad and Archana. She says, 'We shot for 40 days in Rajahmundry, and I got to play a proper 'Telugammayi'. It's not just a token heroine part. I have always looked for roles that matter and give me the scope to perform.' The film is a family drama that explores close-knit relationships. 'We have seen a lot of action and romance lately. This one is more for the families.' Theatre to cinema Jaipur-born Aakanksha began her acting journey in theatre before moving to television with Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha. 'The show ran for two seasons, and we filmed for eight months for each season. It was a slice-of-life drama where I played a mother of two,' she recalls of her 2012 debut. But the dream had always been cinema. A cameo in Badrinath ki Dulhania, starring Alia Bhatt and Varun Dhawan, gave her a first taste of the big screen. 'Television demands playing one character over a long stretch, and after a point, I felt creatively unfulfilled. Coming from a theatre background, I missed the challenge of exploring different characters. Being on a film set again with Badrinath rekindled that spark.' An unexpected call from writer-director Gowtam Tinnanuri changed things. 'He had seen my photos and thought I would suit the role of Anjali in Malli Raava. We had a 45-minute chat, he narrated the story and followed it up with a short pitch video. I was drawn in, and got over my hesitation about working in an unfamiliar language.' Malli Raava was followed by a role in Devadas, alongside Nagarjuna Akkineni, Nani, and Rashmika Mandanna. 'There was a great creative buzz on set,' she says. She also appeared in the Kannada film Pailwaan, among other Telugu-Tamil bilingual films. 'Just when I thought things were moving in the right direction, the pandemic brought it all to a halt,' she adds. Riding the digital wave There was, however, a silver lining. Hindi and Telugu web series started coming her way in quick succession. 'I followed all safety precautions and travelled between Mumbai and Hyderabad for work. I am grateful that work kept coming — it meant I was not out of sight,' says Aakanksha. Telugu series such as Parampara, Meet Cute, and Bench Life, along with Hindi titles Rangbaaz, Ranneeti, and Khakee kept her schedule full. 'It was a tough time for everyone, and I am glad I was not sitting idle.' Reflecting on her 13-year journey as an actor, Aakanksha says it is self-belief and focus that have kept her going. 'I have learnt a lot from those I have worked with, but also from my own experiences. That is what has helped me grow as a performer.' She believes it is time to put to rest the idea that female actors have limited longevity. 'It is a myth that we have short shelf lives,' she says firmly, citing Shefali Shah and Neena Gupta as examples. 'If we nurture our talent and stay open to evolving, we will stay relevant.'
Pink Villa
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
Anaganaga OTT verdict: Sumanth's Telugu family drama debuts online, check how netizens are reacting to it
Anaganaga, starring Sumanth Kumar, had a direct OTT release on May 15. With its digital debut, viewers tuned in to watch the movie on ETV Win. Since its release, social media has been buzzing with reviews of the film. If you haven't watched it yet, take a look at these reactions from netizens before making your decision. Actor Sai Dharam Tej shared on X that one of his favorite films of Sumanth is Malli Raava, but Anaganaga offered a completely different experience. He felt the film touched the heart in a unique way. According to him, the emotions portrayed by Sumanth and the child actor Master Viharsh left a lasting impression. He also praised Sunny Sanjay for the brilliant writing and direction. Meanwhile, viewers who recently watched Anaganaga shared that the film left them teary-eyed, especially towards the end. Many said they deeply connected with the father-son bond portrayed on screen. They appreciated the film's emotional depth and called the writing strong and the direction by Sunny Sanjay heartfelt. Some viewers felt Anaganaga spoke volumes about the flaws in the current education system. Though they admitted a few scenes were predictable, the sincerity in the storytelling and performances stood out. Sumanth and child actor Viharsh received praise for their natural acting, particularly in the emotional climax. Audiences expressed surprise that the film didn't opt for a theatrical release, considering its quality. They called it a beautiful movie and another gem in Sumanth's filmography. The emotional impact, especially from the characters Vyaas and Ram, lingered with many. Several also applauded the supporting cast and called Sunny Sanjay a promising new voice in Telugu cinema. Many felt ETV Win had added another strong title to its slate. Check out the reactions below: Anaganaga features Sumanth Kumar, Kajal Choudhary, and Master Viharsh in lead roles, with B.V.S. Ravi, Anu Hasan, Rakesh Rachakonda, Avasarala Srinivas, and Kaumudi Nemani playing key supporting characters. The film is written and directed by Sunny Sanjay and is produced by Rakesh Reddy Gadam and Rudra Madireddy.
Hans India
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hans India
Aakanksha Singh sizzles in traditional glam
Actress Aakanksha Singh, who made a memorable debut in the 2017 romantic drama Malli Raava, followed by a notable role opposite Nagarjuna in Devadas, continues to hold her ground in Telugu cinema. While a breakout role still eludes her, Aakanksha's screen presence remains captivating. Her latest appearance has caught the attention of fans and fashion watchers alike. Donning a sultry pink bralette blouse paired with a matching traditional skirt and classic jumkas, Aakanksha makes a powerful style statement. Her poised expressions, especially her intense eyes, add an extra spark to the frame, elevating her glam quotient. The actress is now back on sets for her next Telugu film Shashtipoorthi, which stars Rupeysh, Rajendra Prasad, and Archana. While details of her role remain under wraps, it's clear that Aakanksha is determined to make every appearance count. Whether or not this project marks her much-awaited breakthrough, Aakanksha Singh is steadily building a portfolio that combines beauty with expressive acting. Her fans remain hopeful that the best is yet to come.
