Laya Interview: From US to Telugu Cinema again: Opportunities like Thammudu don’t knock often

Laya was one of the top stars in the early 2000s. She got married and settled in the US. With Nithiin's Thammudu, she makes her comeback and talks about her role, leaving her job in the US, and playing character roles now. 

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What made you come back to Telugu cinema after such a long time?

I was happily settled in the US with my family. Whenever I had time, I used to make videos and fun dance numbers. They became a rage in India, and when I came back for a short vacation, I gave a lot of interviews and stated that if I got a good role, I had no issues making a comeback. The makers of Thammudu contacted me, asked for a new portfolio, and once I sent them one, I was locked for the film.

What made you choose Thammudu as your comeback film?

The moment I heard the story of Thammudu, I felt it was the perfect comeback I needed. I had ruled the roost as a heroine, and returning gracefully to films is a natural process. The moment I got an offer to play Nithiin's sister, and that too in a Dil Raju film, I said yes to my second innings—and here I am, promoting the film.

About your character?

I play Jhansi Kiramayee, a powerful government official in Thammudu. How she faces issues in a small village and how her brother comes to her rescue is the basic story of the film. The bond between the brother and sister, their ego clashes, and my conflict with the villain, Thammudu, gave me solid scope to showcase my acting prowess.

Facing the camera after such a long time?

I didn’t feel any difference. The only change was that I played a character role. This time, the performance had to peak, and the emotional outbursts were intense. My director, Venu, told me that my character doesn’t speak much and emotes through her eyes. All this was a bit challenging, but I loved the making process. Apart from that, the exposure is much higher now, as the promotions are being done on another level.

Working with the likes of Nithiin?

Nithiin is a sweetheart, and our scenes have come out so well. You will see a mature Nithiin in this film, and his performance is one of the biggest highlights. The film's story unfolds in a single day, and it was quite difficult to shoot in the forests. Nithiin and I even suffered injuries while shooting.

How hard was it to leave your job and life in the US to do films in India?

My kids have grown up, and I was busy with my job in the US when I was offered this film. I felt that opportunities don’t knock on your door often, and this was the right time to begin my second innings. Though it required a lot of sacrifice, I made up my mind—and here I am.

How are you planning your career ahead in Tollywood?

I am open to character roles now. I’ve been there and done those star-heroine roles, and I’m looking to play important characters. For me, the role should drive the story. Whether it’s a sister or a mother, I have no qualms about playing supporting roles. Whenever I get an offer, I will come back to India and shoot.

Future projects?

As of now, I’m doing a film with senior actor Sivaji. It’s a fun film, and once again, I have a solid role. Though it’s a mature one, I found it quite challenging. Once Thammudu releases, I hope to get more offers and am ready to take on Telugu cinema.

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