Genelia D’Souza opens up about her much-awaited return to South cinema after a 13-year hiatus. Best known for her iconic roles in films like Bommarillu and Ready, the actress reflects on her journey, motherhood and the deep gratitude she holds for the South Indian industry that shaped her career
Suresh Kavirayani
sureshkavirayani@gmail.com
Genelia, once the reigning star of South Indian cinema, is back on screen after a 13-year hiatus. Known for her superhit films and memorable performances, her characters have continued to resonate with audiences even years later. Now, with her comeback film Junior, set to release on July 18, the actress opens up about her return, career, family and more.
“Yes, I am doing a South film after thirteen years and I am very happy to come back,” said Genelia. “When this film came to me three years ago, Ritesh (her husband) told me that I must do what I like and this role is different — so I accepted.” She added that the film’s director had immense faith in her. “He was so convinced I could do this role. That belief pushed me to say yes.”
Speaking about Junior, Genelia shared that the character she plays is unlike anything she’s done before. “It’s also like a reunion for me with cinematographer Senthil and music director Devi Sri Prasad. My role is very special and new to me — I’ve never played something like this. It’s a boss kind of role. As the film progresses, you’ll see many layers to the character.”
Junior marks the debut of Kireeti. Talking about her young co-star, she said, “He is a confident actor and very hardworking.”
Even after all these years, fans fondly remember her as Hasini from Bommarillu and for her roles in Happy, Ready and Satyam. “If I am remembered today, it is because of the South. They didn’t see Genelia, they saw the characters I portrayed,” she reflected. “I have always looked at Indian cinema as a whole — the kind of love and respect I got from the Telugu audience is something I’ll never forget. Not many girls get roles like Hasini or a film like Katha — these are rare opportunities. I owe my career to the roles I got in the South.”
While she received many offers over the years, Genelia chose to take a 10-year break to focus on her children. “I wanted to be there with them as they grew up,” she said. “Now that they’re older, I decided to come back and take on good roles. I want to continue from here.” She added, “I’m open to any role — even a five-minute one — as long as it has impact. Sometimes the smallest roles leave the biggest mark.”
She also reflected on her Marathi debut Ved, directed by her husband Ritesh and produced by their company. “It was a remake of the Telugu film Majili and Ritesh saw the wife’s role only in me. It was such a beautiful part. I feel blessed to have received strong, meaningful roles. It was a brilliant entry into Marathi cinema,” she said. Speaking of the Telugu version, she praised Samantha, saying, “She did a wonderful job.”
Now that she’s returning with Junior, Genelia is eager to hear what the audience thinks of her performance. “To be away for ten years and still get a chance — it’s a blessing. I didn’t plan a career in acting, but I got the chance. It was Shankar sir who first saw me and offered me a role. Then Rajamouli offered me one. Dil Raju gave me Bommarillu. I truly feel blessed to be part of this industry.”
Genelia has worked with NTR and Ram Charan — now among the biggest stars in Indian cinema. “We all started our careers around the same time. NTR is a gifted actor. Give him a three-page dialogue and he’ll memorise and deliver it flawlessly. Allu Arjun brings incredible energy to his roles. I’m proud to have been a part of their journeys,” she shared.
Talking about her children, Genelia revealed they’ve only now started showing interest in her work. “They’re not into TV or films much, but now they’re curious. They want to know what Bommarillu is — they haven’t seen any of my films yet!” She added, “Sometimes I watch my songs on YouTube — I really enjoy the song Nalla Nallani from Sye. I’ve never done anything I’ve been ashamed of. I chose my roles carefully.”
After Boys, she was offered Satyam — a film many advised her not to do. “But I went with my gut and did it. The film became a huge success. I don’t come from a film background. I chose roles with my heart and intent. That’s how I picked my films.”
She recounted how, despite her years of work in the South, when she returned to Bollywood, people treated her like a newcomer. “My debut film Tujhe Meri Kasam was a remake of Nuvve Kavali and I did it with Ritesh — who later became my life partner. After six years, I did Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na and people still called me a newcomer. I had already done so much work in the South! People liked me because of my work here. I’ve always had support from audiences and the industry. I may not have done ultra-glamorous roles, but I’ve been fortunate to be offered good ones — roles that are still remembered.”
Not just male fans, but female audiences also adore her characters — something Genelia deeply values. “That kind of love brings responsibility. I think I’ve chosen characters that make me proud.”
She also had kind words for rising star Sreeleela. “I think Junior is her first film and she’s amazing. I haven’t seen her other films, but I’ve watched her songs. Even Ritesh saw one and said, ‘This is a super hit!’ I said it’s because of DSP. It’s a blessing to have Devi Sri Prasad in any film. I’ve asked him to compose for my production too. He brings so much energy and positivity — and it reflects in his music. That’s why he’s still on top. His songs are so catchy.”
Reflecting on the recent passing of veteran actor Kota Srinivasa Rao, with whom she worked in Bommarillu, Genelia said, “I had a great rapport with him. He was an institution. I’ve been lucky to be part of films where I got to learn from legends like Kota Srinivasa Rao garu and Prakash Raj.”
