It’s not really surprising that Thulasi Nair has taken to cinema like a fish to water, considering it’s in her genes. Ironically, the girl who is debuting in Mani Ratnam’s Kadal, never dreamt of a career in films. The Mumbaikar recounts, “I never thought I would take up films. I’ve never even taken part in a play in school!” So how did her debut happen? “I owe it entirely to Mani Ratnam, my guru. I was busy studying for my board exams when he called. After I landed the role of Beatrice, its been Mani sir’s guidance all the way. He has poured Kadal into my hands!” she gushes.
The fact that the director insisted she go off social networking sites helped, “It kept us away from reality and immersed in our work. Only now the excitement and hype is sinking in!” she says. Co-starring with newbie Gautham Karthik also helped, “We discussed things we didn’t understand. We were equally wide-eyed and in awe about everything happening around us,” she explains. With both mom, sister and aunt Ambika in films, was there any pressure? “Of course! I was a bit nervous but Mani sir made sure that we jumped right into work so there was no time to think. He was very chilled out,” she says.
It also helped that she shares a deep bond with her sister Karthika ,“I look up to Karthika for everything. When we are not shooting, I am in her room and we talk till we are hoarse!” she guffaws, “She would call me after shooting and ask me how the day went and that really helped.”
As she speaks, it’s a task to not be struck by her ready smile and sunny confidence. Just as we wind up, she chimes in, “I only hope people like me in the film. I want them to see me as any other debutant and not compare me with anyone.” Given her lineage, that might be a tall order.
