Tejaswi Madivada: Commitment will get me recognition as a performer beyond my looks

Tejaswi Madivada, who shot to fame with films like Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu, Kerintha and Heart Attack, is returning to Telugu cinema after a sabbatical with Commitment. The hard-hitting drama, condemning the many hypocrisies faced by women on a daily basis, is helmed by Laksmikanth Chenna. Commitment is all set to hit theatres this weekend.

The actress is cast in a role that shares similarities with real-life actor Sri Reddy. “There are four stories in Commitment. I play an actress who’s desperate to make it big in films. The story will mirror the realities faced by women in the industry. It offered me good scope to perform. My intention isn’t to defame showbiz. The film comes with a strong message,” she shares.

The Rojulu Marayi girl believes Commitment is different from other films that threw light on the realities in the industry. “Generally, we tend to give a cinematic touch to reality in our films. However, the film is very natural in its treatment. I know the problems people face while awaiting the right opportunity in films. There were times when I was scared to talk to managers and couldn’t comprehend what they said. It isn’t easy at all.”

All said and done, Tejaswi is still thankful to cinema for giving her an identity today. “It has given a direction to my career. The reason I’m talking to you all is because of cinema. There are two sides to the same coin and our effort in Commitment is only to highlight that. I’ve studied journalism before and made a switch to films for survival. It took me a lot of mental strength to be here. I am ready to give it everything if a good role comes my way.”

Reportedly, her co-star Srinath found it difficult to be a part of intimate scenes in Commitment and it took a while for the situation to turn comfortable for him. “It’s important to do whatever that’s necessary for the film. I am ready to do intimate scenes provided they are integral to the plot.” Tejaswi feels she’ll get her due as an actress in Commitment beyond her good looks.

“I’m confident Commitment will be a gamechanger in my career.” Contrary to popular belief, she opines her Bigg Boss Telugu stint has done a lot of good to her. “I am doing well for myself after the reality show, bought a car and a house for myself. I don’t care what the people say, I need to survive here and make money. I am smart enough to know how to take charge of my career.”

She had a tryst with Tamil cinema but doesn’t have many great memories about it. Tejaswi will be making her Hindi debut shortly and is receiving offers from other industries as well.