"This is a true family entertainer that strikes the perfect balance. While there is a core conflict, it’s handled with such wit and humor that it never feels heavy-handed. It’s a film that manages to resonate without ever feeling like it's 'preaching' to the audience," says Eesha Rebba, ahead of the theatrical release of Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi on January 30. In this interview, the actress talks about the film's merits, working with actor Tharun Bhascker and director AR Sanjeev, and more.
The film, jointly produced by Srujan Yarabolu, Aditya Pittie, Vivek Krishnani, Anup Chandrasekharan, Sadhik Shaik, and Naveen Sanivarapu, has music by Jay Krish.
It’s been a little while since my last project, which didn't land the way I hoped. I made a conscious choice to wait for a script where the integrity of the story and character would be protected from start to finish. This film is exactly the project I have been waiting for. Stepping into Shanti’s shoes has been an incredible journey. I have spent years waiting for a role with this kind of depth; the kind of character you dream of playing at least once in your career. This film finally made that dream a reality, and I have poured my entire heart and soul into every frame.
My corresponding character in the Malayalam original (Jaya Jaya Jaya Jaya Hey) was very well-crafted. It’s a story that connects universally with everyone. To suit Telugu nativity, many changes were made to the story and the characters. The emotions in the film are something everyone can connect with. Since the adaptation is solid, Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi won't feel like a remake at all.
Director AR Sanjeev has a very clear vision. He does exactly what he sets out to do. He is very stubborn in a good way. He works extremely hard to bring what he imagines onto the screen and convinces everyone involved. He has captured even the smallest details beautifully. The film captures the drama that happens in a lot of families with a newly-wed couple.
When I first imagined myself in the role, it felt cute. Thinking about my character, who slaps her husband, was unbelievable.
A slap by me did really land hard on Tharun (smiles). There is a scene where chutney sticks to the cheek. For that to happen, you definitely have to hit for real (laughs). The tears you see in my eyes in that scene are real. There is also an action sequence in this film. In that scene, both Tharun and I got hurt. During the COVID period, I learned martial arts.
I didn’t have any problem with the accent, because my mother is from Rajahmundry. I used to go there every summer vacation, so that region is familiar to me. However, the accent was a challenge for Tharun (as he hails from Telangana). He worked very hard on it, because until now he has only played characters with a Telangana accent.
I like doing different kinds of roles. From Anthaku Mundu Aa Tarvatha, Ami Thumi, Brand Babu, to Three Roses, every role of mine has been different.
I don't enjoy promotions if I get to repeat myself in multiple interviews. Sometimes, the questions are unrelated to the movie!
