Suresh Kavirayani
sureshkavirayani@gmail.com
Yesteryear lead actress Laya is all set to make a comeback with the film Thammudu, starring Nithiin in the lead role. Directed by Venu Sriram and produced by Dil Raju, the film is scheduled for release on July 4. Ahead of the release, the makers launched the film’s trailer, during which Laya opened up about her return to the big screen.
“In nearly twenty years, I haven’t worn makeup or faced the camera. Now, I’m back with Thammudu, and I feel it is an emotional homecoming. After so many years, I am standing in front of you all again. There’s a bit of fear, and also some doubt about how people will receive me in this re-launch,” said Laya. Speaking highly of the team, the actress praised the director and producer for trusting her with the role. “Director Venu Sriram and producer Dil Raju believed in this character, and that gives me a lot of confidence,” she shared. Laya revealed that she plays Nithiin’s sister in the film.
“Venu saw a small reel of mine and approached me for this role. Then I did a two-day photoshoot — it wasn’t easy due to the time difference between the USA and India, and I couldn’t sleep properly. The director made some corrections and finally, I was here. The credit goes to him,” she said.
Laya clarified that she does not view this as a re-launch. “I feel like this is my first film. Instead of calling it a re-launch, I believe this is a new journey in my life. It gives me a chance to fulfil my dreams and play roles I didn’t get to do earlier. I’ll also get to interact with a new generation of actors and audiences. I just hope people show me the same love they did when I started my career,” said the actress.
She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family: “If my husband and children didn’t support me, I couldn’t be here. They’ve sacrificed something for me, and I give special thanks to my husband.”
