The trend of female-centric films is gaining momentum in Tollywood, with leading actresses taking on challenging roles in such movies. Glamorous diva Tamannaah is set to star in her first female-centric film, Odela 2, directed by Sampath Nandi. Joining her is Kajal Aggarwal, who will portray a cop in her debut lady-oriented film Satyabhama. Rashmika Mandanna, a current star, is also stepping into the world of women-oriented films with The Girlfriend.
Director Hemanth Madhukar notes that actresses are eager to carry a film on their shoulders and are exploring opportunities to do so. He cites the success of actresses like Anushka Shetty, Samantha, and Keerthy Suresh, who have proven their ability to draw audiences.
The age of an actress does not seem to be a deciding factor in choosing roles, according to producer Vishnu Induri. Talented and experienced actresses are interested in diverse roles and are looking to try something new alongside their commercial projects. He believes that actresses with charm and popularity will continue to rule the industry for years to come.
Anushka Shetty, at 39 years old, recently returned with a romantic entertainer, Miss Shetty Mister Polishetty, further solidifying her status as a flag-bearer of female-oriented films. Director Hemanth Madhukar encourages actresses to balance star-driven and women-oriented films to extend their careers and maintain their fan base.
Producer-distributor Abhishek Nama welcomes the emergence of new-age actresses like Rashmika and Keerthy Suresh, noting that their involvement in female-centric films will give a boost to the genre in Telugu cinema. Audiences are eager to see them in multifaceted roles, moving beyond their usual portrayals in star-driven movies.