Actor-singer Vasundhara Das expressed her happiness over the re-release of ‘Ravanaprabhu’, which has given audiences a chance to relive the experience of watching the film in theatres. She played the female lead, Janaki, in the movie.
Vasundhara said, in an interview with Matinee Now, that even after 24 years, the film continues to bring her immense love from Malayalis in Kerala and abroad. She shared that several people had initially advised director Ranjith against casting her in the film.
Reflecting on her early career, Vasundhara mentioned that after her first two films became successful, she had planned to step away from acting. However, she accepted the offer for ‘Citizen’ before deciding to take a break. It was during the shoot of ‘Citizen’ that Ranjith approached her with the story of ‘Ravanaprabhu’.
According to her, Ranjith took special care in developing Janaki’s ‘free-spirited’ character, which stood out as a strong female role in mainstream commercial cinema. Vasundhara said she had always longed for such a role, one that was both powerful and meaningful. She revealed that many people had cautioned Ranjith against working with her, claiming she was too independent and outspoken.
The actor recalled reaching Pollachi for the Ravanaprabhu shoot just a day after completing her Tamil film ‘Citizen’. The first scene she shot was the song ‘Pottu kuthedi’. She described feeling exhausted after long indoor shoots and arriving on set with anxiety, only to be given a T-shirt, backpack, and props — and instructed simply to run. For the next four days, she did just that while filming the song, which she described as a creatively fulfilling experience that lifted her spirits.
Vasundhara also shared a light-hearted memory from a scene where Jagadeesh’s character attempts to abduct Janaki. She found the moment so amusing that she struggled to maintain composure during the takes, leading to several retakes.
Looking back, Vasundhara said she never imagined how much ‘Ravanaprabhu’ would change her life. She continues to feel deeply grateful for the love and recognition she receives from Malayali audiences even today. People often recognise her and approach her warmly, something she considers a precious reward for her work. She added that people frequently quote the film’s popular line “Savari Giri Giri” when they see her in public places like airports, leaving those unfamiliar with the reference amused.
Vasundhara said she feels a strong sense of belonging wherever she travels. She has never felt stranded or alone, as she can always reach out to Malayali associations around the world for support. For her, the unconditional affection of Malayalis remains one of the most heart-warming aspects of her career.