Eesha Rebba on Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi: I wanted a role with substance not stardom

After a gap of nearly two years, Eesha Rebba is back with her new film Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi, which hits the screens on January 31, 2026. She speaks about opting for a remake, playing a suppressed wife, working with Tharun Bhascker, and choosing meaningful roles. Here is the transcript.

Eesha Rebba interview about Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi

What made you take a break for almost two years?

My last film, Mama Mascheendra, did not work at the box office, and I was quite disappointed. I consciously decided to either do films with strong content or sit idle. Though the wait was long, I am now coming back with one of the best films of my career, Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi, which releases on January 30, 2026. I am super thrilled to see how the audience reacts to my performance.

What was your take when you were offered the remake of Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey?

When the offer came to me, I never saw it as a remake. The film has a universal subject, and characters like this come once in a lifetime. After taking a two-year gap, Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi was the perfect film to showcase my acting prowess, and I wanted a role with substance, not stardom.

How did you prepare for your role?

I had watched Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey a long time ago. Though I was curious to see how the female lead would be approached in the remake, I made a conscious decision not to watch the original again. I worked closely with director Sajeev and approached the film as a completely new story.

Your special bond with Tharun Bhascker?

This is my first time working with Tharun. When he was cast as a village man from the Godavari backdrop, I was initially surprised. But watching him perform, I was taken aback. Not many popular actors would take up a role with negative shades, and Tharun absolutely nailed it. We share a close bond, and it reflects on screen.

Have you made any changes to the remake?

Yes, the climax has been completely changed and will definitely raise a few eyebrows among Telugu audiences. It is debatable and will spark discussions online. Apart from that, the soul of the film remains intact, with only the backdrop and sensibilities adapted.

About your character?

I play a small-town girl married into a conservative family. The film explores how she is suppressed by a dominating husband and how she eventually comes out of the relationship. I had a great time shooting, and my scenes with Tharun are intense yet fun.

How different is the Telugu version from the original?

The Telugu version is more commercial. While the original had serious drama, we’ve added subtle humor, lively characters, and relatable situations. The soul remains the same, and the universal theme will connect well with Telugu audiences.

Are remakes even working these days?

Not many people here are familiar with the original, especially in the interiors of Telugu states. Only a select OTT-watching audience knows about it. With the changes we’ve made, Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi can be watched like a true original.

Also Read: Tharun Bhascker on Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi: Playing the negative lead was so cool 

Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi FAQs

Q. When will Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi be released?

A. The family drama hits the screens on January 30, 2026

Q. Who is the director of Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi?

A. A. R. Sajeev has directed the film, which is the remake of the Malayalam hit Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey

Q. Where to stream Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi on OTT?

A. The OTT platform is yet to be locked