From
the clumsy heroine in Kizhakke pogum rayil to
the smouldering advocate of Pasapparavaigal to
the quietly self-assured Chitti and Selvi, Radhikaa
has traveled a long distance. An intuitively talented
actress who reached the peak of popularity with
her screen presence, she has also proved to be
a shrewd businesswoman. She stepped into television
production and today her flagship, Radaan Mediaworks
is the leading content provider for the channels
in all south Indian languages. A relaxed chat
with the star……
Q: Could you have succeeded in television
without Radaan?
Radhikaa:
See, I had reached a stage where I could not
play the college girl roles in films. But, I
felt that mature and meaningful roles were hard
to come by. I wanted to retain my creative and
personal independence. Hence, I launched Radaan
so that I could experiment with good stories.
My faith in the audience is vindicated as Radaan
has grown into a public limited company and
we are fast racing to be the top content company
for television.
Q: You seem to be preoccupied with the
topic of extramarital relationships?
Radhikaa:
I would definitely not say that what is shown
reflects the happenings in the society. But, I
must confess that the emotional swings that occur
in families due to such complexities make for
interesting viewing. I am interested in exploring
this angle and there is nothing more to it. I
am open to constructive criticism and am willing
to make amends if necessary.
Q: Do you nurse political ambitions?
Radhikaa:
(with a surprised look) pochudaa! See I am very
close to Kalaignar’s family. He is like
a father figure. Sarath is busy with cinema, Sangam
and Parliament. So, I don’t think I will
make a political debut. My family both immediate
and Radaan are more important to me.
Q:
How do you feel when you look back on your career?
Radhikaa:
um..um..Well, honestly at times I do feel whether
I should be doing all these at all. I would just
love to sit back and be the good wife and doting
mother. Then, all the struggles and pain that
I underwent strike me like a torrent and I just
feel compelled to carry on my work. That’s
how I motivate myself.
