Genelia Deshmukh Opens Up About Her Cinematic Journey and Family Life
Genelia Deshmukh, a celebrated name in South Indian cinema, has made a remarkable return to the silver screen after a 13-year hiatus. Best known for her breakout role as the vibrant Hasini in the 2006 blockbuster Bommarillu, she captivated audiences with her spirited performance that helped the protagonist break free from paternal control. This role not only catapulted her to stardom but also earned her the prestigious Nandi Special Jury Award, solidifying her place in the hearts of fans.
A Nostalgic Connection to Hyderabad
In an exclusive conversation with Hyderabad Times, Genelia expressed her deep affection for Hyderabad, describing it as a home away from home. She shared, "When I'm in Hyderabad, I feel a profound connection with the people here. The city has always been a place of comfort and belonging, even during solitary moments. I'm immensely grateful for the opportunities, friendships, and support I've received from this vibrant city." She also praised Hyderabad's weather, noting that it draws her back repeatedly, reinforcing her emotional ties to the region.
Reflecting on Iconic Roles and Career Highlights
Genelia's career in Telugu cinema is marked by memorable characters such as Madhumathi in Happy (2006) and Pooja in Ready (2008). Reflecting on her journey, she stated, "One of my greatest takeaways from Tollywood has been the opportunity to portray deeply etched characters. I've been fortunate to play roles that I could take home with me, and credit goes to the visionary directors who brought these stories to life. Being the face of such wonderful characters in South Indian cinema is a privilege I cherish."
Embracing Motherhood and a Decade-Long Break
In an industry where visibility often overshadows talent, Genelia made a conscious decision to step away from acting for over a decade to prioritize her family and embrace motherhood. She explained, "Visibility has never been a concern for me. I took a 10-year break to focus on being a mom rather than an actor, a personal choice that allowed me to explore other facets of my life. During this time, I worked as a producer and entrepreneur, which provided immense fulfillment. With the unwavering support of my husband, Riteish Deshmukh, who values my time, it has been a win-win situation, enabling me to experience different aspects of life I might have otherwise missed."
Parenting Priorities and Family Dynamics
Genelia emphasized the importance of her role as a parent, sharing insights into her family's routines. "At home, Riteish and I make it a rule to set aside our phones during meals to engage in meaningful conversations with our children, Riaan and Rahyl, who often remind us to do so. When I travel for work, I plan my schedule around their routine to ensure they never come back to an empty house, with Riteish always stepping in supportively. Parenthood has strengthened our bond, and I strive to be fully present as a mother when with my kids and as an actor when on set."
Perspectives on Indian Cinema and Industry Evolution
Addressing the North-South cinema divide, Genelia advocated for a unified view of Indian cinema. She remarked, "When I started my career, there were comments about Bollywood dropouts finding success in South cinema, but I've always seen it as simply telling stories. A film's success is celebrated across India, as we are all lovers of cinema." Reflecting on the growth of Telugu cinema since her debut in Satyam (2003), she added, "Telugu cinema has undergone a remarkable transformation, especially post-Baahubali. I'm proud to have been part of this industry from its early days and thrilled to see talents like Ram Charan and Allu Arjun achieving great heights. I wish the industry continued success and growth."
A Memorable Moment from Bommarillu
Recalling her iconic role in Bommarillu, Genelia shared a touching anecdote about her mother's reaction during the film's screening. "I remember watching the climax scene where my character confronts everyone with my mother, and she began weeping. I found myself crying too. It's a blessing to have played such an impactful role that resonated deeply with audiences." This moment underscores the emotional depth she brought to her performances, leaving a lasting legacy in South cinema.
