Shivani Rajashekar on Kotabommali PS: I picked up many influences from my dad, grandpa subconsciously

Kotabommali PS, the cop drama that arrives in theatres on November 24 is the Telugu remake of the Malayalam hit Nayattu. Directed by Teja Marni, the film, which has stayed in the news for its single Lingi Lingi Lingidi, brings together a stellar lineup comprising Srikanth, Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, Shivani Rajashekar and Rahul Vijay. Ahead of its release, Shivani spoke to scribes.

Coming on board

After noticing me in Nenjukku Neethi, the Tamil version of Article 15, Teja Marni approached me for the story. I played a rural girl in the film and this role too falls into he same zone. There have been many changes to the screenplay, despite being a remake, catering to tastes of Telugu audiences. I gained confidence in the film after it went on floors. I learnt the Srikakulam slang for the film.

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Kotabommali PS vs Nayattu

I watched Nayattu only after getting the offer for Kotabommali PS. I didn’t think too much about the original later, fearing I would imitate the original. This will be a fresh experience for the viewer. I play a police constable in a village and my grandad too was a real-life cop. My dad too has adequate experience playing a cop on screen and I picked up many influences from them subconsciously.

Not getting to be the commercial film heroine

I never thought about the fact that I didn’t get to do quintessential heroine roles. There are somethings that are left to destiny. It was a learning experience to notice the highs and lows of my parents. The only aspect I can control is my hardwork and trust the process. I want to take up a wide range of roles and I am waiting for the right opportunity. I don’t let my parents interfere with my decisions, they leave it to me.

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Association with the co-stars

I’ve known Srikanth garu for long and he has been a colleague, family friend to dad. It was a wonderful experience, he’s a very jovial actor and so easy going on sets. I and Rahul learnt a lot from him, from respecting the director to his punctuality. Varalaxmi Sarathkumar will be another major highlight in the film.

Also read: Teja Marni’s Kotabommali PS release date announced