Ananya means one-of-a-kind, unique or matchless in Sanskrit. She is the hot newcomer from God’s own country to make a mark with her debut film Nadodigal. Sify.com caught up with the bubbly actress in conversation on the sets of her maiden Telugu film in Hyderabad.

Why did you change your name Ayilya to Ananya?
Everyone thought that my name was complicated and not easy to remember. So, my mentor Sasikumar whom I call Mamman changed it. Now I am happy that my new name has brought luck and I have asked the producers of my two yet-to-be-released films in Malayalam to use my new name in the title card.

How did the acting bug catch you?
I hail from a middle class family in Perumbavoor near Kochi. Both my parents are government employees and from young days I was into lot of activities like Mono-act, mimicry, Kathaprasangam etc which I did at school competitions. My first film was Positive in Malayalam, then I got this offer from Tamil and after hearing the script, I was thrilled. Now I’am doing two films in Malayalam one with Jayaram and the other with Jayasurya.

Why were you thrilled?
The three films I did had me doing serious, matured roles. When Kani sir (Samuthirakani) narrated the character of Nallama the bubbly village girl who is crazy about food and her cousin, whom she calls Mama played by Sasi sir, it was interesting.

You have come up with and outstanding performance especially in the sentimental scene in the end. Please comment?
All credit goes to Mamman and Kani sir. I have done nothing and they helped me in every scene including my dubbing .

So you dubbed in your own voice?
Yes. Can you believe that I didn’t know a word in Tamil when I started the film? Again, I give all the credit to my director for giving me support and having confidence in me.

You were referring to Sasikumar as Mamman?
(Laughs loudly) That’s a big story. Throughout the film, if you have noticed, I am after him calling Mama, and slowly I started calling him like that even after the pack up. Now it’s difficult for me to change it.

How did this Telugu offer come?
When Nadodigal trailer was out, I got this offer. This is again a role which will suit me. I don’t think glamour is my cup of tea. There are enough girls to do eye candy roles. I think, I don’t fit into that category and I want to do some good films. It’s a big “no” to sleeveless, short dress and tights for me. And do you think I will look good in them?

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