Daijiworld Media Network – Kochi

Kochi, Oct 13: Actor-singer Vasundhara Das expressed her joy over the re-release of the Malayalam blockbuster ‘Ravanaprabhu’, which gives audiences a chance to relive the cinematic experience. She played the female lead, Janaki, in the 1995 classic.

Vasundhara told Matinee Now that even after 24 years, the film continues to bring her immense love from Malayalis both in Kerala and abroad. She recalled that several people had initially advised director Ranjith against casting her, fearing her independent and outspoken nature.

Reflecting on her early career, Vasundhara revealed that after the success of her first two films, she had planned to step away from acting. However, she took up ‘Citizen’ before Ranjith approached her with the story of ‘Ravanaprabhu’. She appreciated how Ranjith carefully shaped Janaki’s free-spirited character, making it a strong and meaningful female role in mainstream cinema.

Sharing memories from the shoot in Pollachi, she recalled filming the song ‘Pottu Kuthedi’ right after completing ‘Citizen’, describing the experience as creatively fulfilling despite exhaustion. She also laughed about struggling to keep a straight face during a scene where Jagadeesh’s character attempts to abduct Janaki, resulting in multiple retakes.

Vasundhara said she never imagined the lasting impact of ‘Ravanaprabhu’. She continues to feel grateful for the recognition and warmth from Malayali audiences, often being greeted with the film’s famous line “Savari Giri Giri” in public.

She added that wherever she travels, the support of Malayali associations worldwide makes her feel at home, and the unconditional affection of her fans remains one of the most heartwarming aspects of her career.