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Yami Gautam: Happy to be part of Gouravam

Yami Gautam made her debut in Telugu with Nuvvila directed by Ravi Babu in November 2011. She became a name to reckon with after the Hindi film Vicky Donor.

Yami is all set to enter the Tamil industry with Radhamohan's bi-lingual film Gouravam which also marks the debut of Sirish in Telugu and Tamil.

She gives us more details about Gouravam in this exclusive interview.

Are you happy playing the lead role in Gouravam, a film to do with honour killings?

Yes, I'm happy being a part of this film. It's a coincidence that most of the films I have done are to do with social causes. Honour killings are still prevalent in contemporary India.

Was it the theme that made you sign it?

It is definitely the theme, the director and the role which are the three important factors for me to sign a film.

It was a very good set up. I felt I should make the best of the opportunity.

'It was challenging to say the dialogues in Tamil and Telugu'

This film marks your Tamil debut...

Right. I'm happy I'm having this as my debut film.

Since it's a bi-lingual film, there must have been lengthy dialogues in Tamil and Telugu. How did you cope with them?

They were in two different languages which were alien to me. So, it was a challenge for me. Considering I am playing a budding lawyer, I talk quite a bit. So it required rehearsals, practice and hard work.

I had to prepare with the team. I had a great team to work with. You need to dedicate time and practice and be patient.

'It was challening to shoot the film rural areas'

Did you shoot the film in rural areas?

Yes, in villages. Again that was also a challenge. You are used to certain things as an actor – not luxuries though. There were different requirements. It was a new experience away from the city.

How was it shooting in the villages then?

It was quite refreshing. South India has beautiful villages. The only option is to enjoy your work.

Everything must have been different....

Yes, the food, places to stay and the people were different. Since it was the first time for me, I was excited.

'Sirish was the best co-star to work with'

How was it working with debutant Sirish?

Sirish was the best co-star to work with. Coming from one of the most important film families, he is grounded. He comes across as one who is into it for the craft.

He tries to make it better and is not laid back. He has this streak which is the mark of a great actor. He has put in a lot of effort. He could have taken it easy but didn't. He knows his responsibility and retains his individuality.

Is there anything particular to look out for in the film?

The theme is very different. I haven't watched anything like this in recent times.

It's not a rural story though it's shot in rural areas. It shows the concept in today's rural-urban India.

There's a thriller element also with the social concept.

'Radhamohan is sensitive and sensible director'

How was Radhamohan as a director? Have you watched his films?

I have watched Mozhi and Abhiyum Naanum. I like him as a director as he is sensitive and sensible. That's what an actor is looking for.

He is a good director. It's a different attempt on everyone's part. We were out of the zone we were in before. It was not an easy film because of the concept, location and intricate level of the story. One had to take care of all the things. It demanded time and hard work.

What are your expectations from this film?

I am looking forward to the release. I don't think beyond. I have never anticipated success. I choose work, give it my best shot and leave it.

I hope people will appreciate it. I don't look forward to anything. I take things as they come.