The film marks Janhvi's debut in non-Hindi cinema. A press release from the makers stated, "She is poised to navigate the storm and bring calm to the intense world of NTR 30."
Published Jul 21, 2024 | 10:08 PM ⚊ Updated Jul 21, 2024 | 10:14 PM
Janhvi Kapoor in 'Devara' (X)
We previously reported that Jr NTR and director Koratala Siva were reuniting for Devara, which will be released in two parts. Originally scheduled for 5 April, the release was moved to 10 October but has been brought forward to 27 September. The film marks Janhvi Kapoor’s Telugu debut and stars Saif Ali Khan as the antagonist.
Set against the remote islands of Andhra Pradesh, Devara has Janhvi Kapoor thrilled. She mentioned in an interview, “I get to have a lot of fun. I dance, goof around, and am thoroughly enjoying the experience.”
Janhvi Kapoor revealed that her role in Devara will be more significant in the second part, with limited screen time in the first. She plays Thangam in the action drama, and a photo of her as a village belle went viral at the start of filming.
The Bollywood actor also shared that working in South cinema helps her feel closer to her late mother, Sridevi, and said it felt like the “right time” for her debut in the industry, as the environment and language connect her to her mother.
Janhvi was pleased to share screenspace alongside Jr NTR and Ram Charan, admiring their filmmaking conviction and charisma.
Janhvi Kapoor in ‘Devara’. (X)
The Bollywood actor expressed her enjoyment working on Devara, saying, “It’s a blast. I’m finally getting to embrace what comes naturally to me—like dancing and having fun. This film is the perfect opportunity for me to relax and have fun with my work.”
Although Janhvi doesn’t know the language, she records her dialogues with help from her DOP, Randy (Rathnavelu), who humorously calls her a ‘tape recorder.’ Janhvi added, “From the start, I’ve been welcomed with open arms and immense warmth. The sets feel like a big, warm hug.”
Devara also features Prakash Raj, Srikanth, and Shine Tom Chacko. Produced by NTR’s brother Nandamuri Kalyan Ram, the film includes production designer Sabu Cyril, editor Sreekar Prasad, and cinematographer Rathnavelu. The music is composed by Anirudh.
In addition to this, Janhvi also stars as female lead, in a film featuring Ram Charan.
Koratala Siva and NTR have previously collaborated on Brindavanam (2010), Oosaravelli (2011), and Janatha Garage (2016).
Meanwhile, Janhvi Kapoor, who was recently hospitalised for severe food poisoning, has been discharged, as confirmed by her father, Boney Kapoor.
On 18 July, a source informed the Indian Express that Janhvi was admitted to HN Reliance Hospital in South Mumbai. She had returned from Chennai on 16 July and, feeling unwell the following day, stayed home and canceled her appointments. Her condition worsened on 18 July, leading to her hospitalisation.
Janhvi recently attended the wedding festivities of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai, accompanied by Shikhar Pahariya.
On the work front, Janhvi was last seen in Mr & Mrs Mahi (2024) with Rajkummar Rao. Her upcoming film, Ulajh, features her as Suhana Bhatia, India’s youngest deputy high commissioner in the Indian Foreign Services.
(Edited by S Subhakeerthana)
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