Lockdown changed people for the better: Ritu Varma

“I worked in Gautham Menon’s part of the anthology, which had cinematography by PC Sreeram. In July, I travelled from Hyderabad to Chennai despite lockdown and heard the narration. Initially I had apprehensions. But when I heard the story from Gautham I couldn’t say ‘no’ and I was looking forward to working with him once again after Dhruva Natchathiram. Moreover, it’s my digital debut,” she tells us. Having carved a niche for herself in a quick span of time, the actress says that digital medium wasn’t in her plans for 2020. “Kannum Kannum Kollaiyadithaal was one of the few theatrical releases of the year and was a successful venture. OTT wasn’t in my mind before the lockdown had begun. However, we realised that it is the only form of entertainment in the last few months. So, by July I had no inhibitions to venture into it,” she adds.

Talking more about lockdown, Ritu says that it has changed people in many ways. “Everyone has undergone a change this lockdown for the better. For me it has been a roller-coaster ride. The first three months I was at home and got back to arts. I painted, sketched after a long time. Before lockdown I was in the UK shooting for my film with Ashok Selvan. Then I shot for Puttham Pudhu Kaalai. It was an experience of sorts. There were no handshakes and hugs on the sets and we had to wear PPE suits. Working wasn’t the same anymore. I liked staying at home as much as I would love to work as I am a home body majorly. I have wrapped my portions for Ashok’s film and will start my film with Nani on Wednesday. Apart from that I also have a Tamil-Telugu bilingual with Sharwanand,” she reveals. Ritu on a concluding note says that she has listened to a few scripts in Tamil. “I haven’t signed any as of now and I hope to do one in near future.”