Many producers and directors consider Pooja as a lucky heroine.
And why not, when her films Mungaaru Maley, Krishna and Milana kept cash registers ringing? But then came the fall with Hani Hani, Anu, Iniya, and the recent Huchchi crashing at the box office. Her latest film Ninagaagi Kaadiriuve (‘I will wait for you’) is slated for release next Friday. Almost true to its title, the film is being released after two years of its muhurat. Pooja talks to Expresso about her experience and future plans.
Huchchi has been released at Kailash, a small theatre here. Are you aware of it?
I was not aware of its release.
I came to know about only through newspapers.
Are you happy with it being screened at Kailash?
I expected the producer and director to get a big theatre for the screening.
Your latest film is slated for screening at Thribhuvan situated in the same complex where Kailash is. Will it be an advantage or disadvantage?
I have no control over the release of my films. It is the discretion of the producer or distributor to select the theatre.
Many experts say you disappointed your fans by acting in Huchchi. Do you agree?
Yes. The director did not work hard to make this film a success.
I even told producer Kumaraswamy about it. I think that I have committed a mistake by agreeing to act in it. It was a lesson for me. I will not accept whatever comes to me in future. Many directors have come to me for my call sheet but I am not in a hurry to accept films.
It seems you have some issues with the producer and director of Ninagaagi Kaadiruve.
I had some problems with the producer regarding my remuneration.
Now, he has paid me.
Is Pooja an expensive heroine?
No. There are a few producers who failed to honour their commitment regarding my pay. I am not complaining against them.
What I wanted to tell is that I am not for money. I am flexible.
You have introduced your sister Radhika in Kannada films. Both of you are acting in Srihari - Harikathe. Many consider Radhika as your replacement. Any plans of becoming a housewife?
I want to marry but that will take at least three years. I want to do different things after my marriage. I am yet to plan for my future. It may be directing a film or continue acting in films.
maheswarareddy@epmltd.com