Mangalavaaram: Getting Candid With Payal Rajput

'Mangalavaaram' is set to be released on November 17, directed by Ajay Bhupathi, known for 'RX 100'. The film features Payal Rajput in a significant role, alongside actors like Ajmal Amir, Nandita Swetha, Sritej, Ajay Ghosh, and Shravan Reddy. Notably, it's a pan-Indian release, hitting screens in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, Kannada, and Malayalam.

In an interview, Payal discusses her character and the film's key aspects. She expresses gratitude to producers Swathi Reddy Gunupati and Suresh Varma M of Mudhra Media Works. The rustic thriller is produced by Ajay Bhupathi under A Creative Works.Payal Rajput, discussing her pivotal role in 'Mangalavaaram,' shares insights into the unique character, the emotional challenges faced, and the anticipation for this unconventional Telugu film's release.

Interviewer: After 'RX 100,' this is your immediate next film directed by Ajay Bhupathi. How did this movie happen?

Payal Rajput: I did seek a chance from him. He told me he would cast me if he had a good character for me. He made it clear that he could not cast me for small roles. He knows my potential, my talent. This movie is going to be my turning point in the Telugu industry. I hope to make a strong comeback. As excited as I am for the release of 'Mangalavaaram,' I am also nervous because this is an out-of-the-box movie. No one has made a film with this type of character and story in India before us.

Interviewer: Is your character a negative one?

Payal Rajput: Not really. Shailu is far from being a villain. After watching the movie, you will feel sympathy for that girl. There are multiple emotions in the movie. We have discussed a very sensitive topic.

Interviewer: What thoughts crossed your mind when the script was narrated?

Payal Rajput: The character is very real. I have done intense, dark roles before but never this kind of a character. After hearing the story, I called my mother and said, 'I am working with Ajay Bhupathi again.' She was happy because it was he who introduced me to Telugu cinema with 'RX 100.'

Interviewer: What is your character like?

Payal Rajput: It is a very challenging role. It was very difficult to pull it off. The real me is not even 10% of Shailu. I was asked not to think about anything before coming to the set. I just reposed faith in my director and surrendered to him. I also did some research to understand the character's emotional journey.

Interviewer: About 35-40 girls were auditioned for the role. Bhupathi finally chose you. What does it feel like?

Payal Rajput: I came to know about the auditions and called the director up. I asked him why I was not being given a shot. I was intent on teaming up with him because I trust his directorial sense.

Interviewer: You look modern in real life. In contrast, Shailu is a villager. How hard was it to get into the skin of the character?

Payal Rajput: It took two hours every day to style the character's hair and makeup. It took more time to come out of the character's emotional journey after the shoot. Shailu did not come out of my system for 15 days. I went to my mother and lived with her for some days. There were bites on my hand by the end of the shoot.

Interviewer: What is the relationship between your character and the one played by Nandita Shweta?

Payal Rajput: Nandita Shweta will be seen as a police officer. Her role, too, has surprise elements.

Interviewer: This is a female-oriented movie made by a lady producer. How comfortable did you feel?

Payal Rajput: Very comfortable. Swathi Reddy was so involved. She and Suresh Varma garu took great care in every matter. Ajaneesh Loknath of 'Kantara' fame has provided excellent music. A set of highly talented technicians have worked on the film. This film will have a story and characters that no one has seen on the Indian silver screen.

Interviewer: When will you do a movie with Kartikeya again?

Payal Rajput: It is left to him (laughs). I want to reunite with him. Once the right story falls in place, we will team up.