Can you share the story of your transformation from Bindya Ram to Rachita Ram?
It’s incredible for me. It wasn’t an easy journey. I really want to thank God and my parents, who continue to support me, as well as my fans, my team, my co-stars—everyone. I am truly grateful to each one of them.

Tell us about your first movie and how you got the offer?
I started in television with a serial called Arasi, where I played a villain. The director gave me a choice between the protagonist and antagonist roles. Since the protagonist often cries a lot and I’m not that kind of person, I chose the antagonist role. It allowed me to explore my expressions and have fun. After 10 months on television, I got a film offer for Bulbul through a friend who mentioned they were looking for a heroine. By God’s grace, I got the role.

Tell us a few words about actor Darshan Thoogudeepa
I started my career with superstar Darshan Thoogudeepa. Even today, I sincerely thank him because if he hadn’t said yes, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I am grateful to Darshan sir and the whole Bulbul team.

When are you planning to do a Tamil movie and your favourite director in Kollywood?
I wasn’t destined to act in Tamil movies all these years, but now it seems like the right time. I want to be part of a good team and work with great filmmakers. I usually don’t plan anything.

How do you handle mean comments?
At first, it was so new to me, like tasting something you’ve never eaten before. My fans had difficulty accepting me in romantic roles or wearing glamorous outfits. They prefer me in traditional Indian outfits. I’m still in the process of convincing my fans.

How has your background in Bharathanatyam influenced your acting career?
My father is a Bharatanatyam dancer, and this background has helped me express myself well on camera. I thank my father for that.

Can you tell us more about your sister Nithya Ram and your connection with her and Chennai?
Nithya Ram is my blood sister, and I love her dearly. She always says, “I am your acting Guru.” Both my father and my sister are my acting mentors, and I am very happy for her, whatever she is doing today.

What has it been like working with stars like Sudeep, Upendra, Puneeth Rajkumar, and Shivarajkumar?
I feel blessed and it was an amazing experience. I learned a lot by observing them—the way they speak, handle situations, and act. Working with them was wonderful.

Could you share your skincare routine with us?
Be natural, be you. I don’t diet; I just eat on time. For breakfast, I have whatever my mom has cooked. I prefer home food, which has probably helped me. My body is very flexible; I can easily gain or lose weight as needed, so I should thank my body. My sister, who keeps herself very natural, and my father, who hates us wearing makeup when we’re not shooting, has influenced me a lot. He always says, “If you are at home, be yourself and not the characters.” I sleep well, drink plenty of water, and drink milk with turmeric since childhood. Don’t overthink; maintain a peaceful heart and mind. I am very happy.

What are your favourite food outlets in Bengaluru and Chennai?
I’m a non-vegetarian. I love eating home food prepared by my mom, dad, and sister. I enjoy chaats, Bangalore’s most authentic food, Masala Dosa from Malleshwaram, CTR, and Idlies, Poori, and Vada from South Kitchen, RR Nagar. In Chennai, I love Pongal with tomato chutney.

Tell us about your upcoming projects
I’m working on Sanju Weds Geetha with Srinagara Kitty and another movie, VK29 with Duniya Vijay.

What does a typical day look like for you when you’re not shooting?
I love to stay at home with my family or go out with my team to chill and visit temples.

Rapid-fire
Tea or coffee?
Both!

Night person or morning person
Depends

Style icon
Actress Sridevi and Madhuri Dixit

If you could choose any role from a classic movie,
what role would it be?
Shalini as Shakti from Alaipayuthey
Ramya Krishnan as Neelambari from Padayappa

Favourite holiday destination
Any place in Europe

If not an actress, what would you become?
Probably IPS or DC or be a wonderful wife to my husband and have three kids!