Shriya Saran reflects on how the film world has evolved over the years

Bollywood actress and South star Shriya Saran marks her 25th year in the entertainment industry this year. The actress, talking to IANS, reflected on how the film world has evolved over the years, especially with the shift from the pre-social media era to the post social media times.

The actress, in an exclusive conversation with IANS, spoke about the changes she has witnessed on film sets over the years. Shriya said that earlier, everything was very different. “The lights were harsh and would hurt your eyes, the cameras were different, and I remember waiting on set until I heard the sound of the camera rolling,” she said.

She highlighted that in current times, the technology has boomed and become far more comfortable, with softer lights and advanced cameras, making the working environment easier for actors.

The “Drishyam” actress also spoke about how the structure of the industry has changed over the years. “Earlier, you dealt with one manager. Now there are agencies, and you have to understand and deal with so many people, them especially being mostly ‘children’,” she said, adding that the younger generation brings a different kind of knowledge. “They know things that we may not, and you have to accept that change.”

Reflecting on the emotional highs and lows of a long career, Saran said, “There are days when you feel low and days when you feel on top of the world. You learn to navigate through it by surrounding yourself with people who support you.” Crediting her successful run of 25 years in the world of glitz and glamour, Shriya credited her growth to her collaborators. Shriya said that she is a product of the directors and co-stars she has worked with over the years, and added that without the support of her team, her journey would not have been possible. For the uninitiated, Shriya made her acting debut in 2001 with the Telugu film “Ishtam” and went on to star in several successful films across languages, including “Santosham,” “Tagore,” “Chatrapathi,” “Sivaji: The Boss,” “Awarapan,” and “Drishyam” franchise.

The actress is currently receiving positive reviews for her performance in the web series Space Gen, which is inspired by India’s Chandrayaan mission.

Meanwhile, Shriya recalled her first meeting with Farah Khan on the set of her second film, “Santosham”, in which Farah choreographed a song named “Diri Diri”. As Farah recently visited Shriya, who is now her neighbour, for her YouTube channel, the “RRR” actress shared a glimpse of the fun episode on social media, along with a note, reminiscing about their bond, which has grown over the years. Talking about her experience of being choreographed by Farah, she added, “While I’m nervously learning the steps, all set with Nagarjuna to perform ..... her fun one liners starts ! She did tell me i was slow thinker but i loved her !! Her energy is top level !” Shriya admitted that despite finding Farah hilariously jolly, she still sees her as the strict choreographer she once knew too well.

Indo-Asian News Service