Acurly-haired lass from Bengaluru set out to tread an ambitious path in 2015. Over the years, she got to portray a range of characters and now, she’s fervently waiting to delve into portraying more meaty roles. Actress Varsha Bollamma, who’s acted in films like Middle Class Memories, Kalyanam and Bigil is currently kicked about doing some exciting projects and also making her Kannada debut. She opens up about her intriguing journey from Bengaluru to the cinematic world.

1. Tell us a little bit about your background and upbringing.
I was born in Kodagu and brought up in Bangalore. I studied in Mount Carmel College where I did my microbiology. I come from a very simple and normal family.

2. How did your tryst with acting happen?
When I was three years old, I’d watch songs being played on TV and want to get inside the TV! That’s when my fascination towards movies and being on TV began. Eventually, I realised that this is what I want to do. As far as I can remember, I only wanted to be an actor.

3. What are your current projects?
My movie Thammudu is up for release. Nithin is my co-star in it. I’m doing a series called Constable Kanakam where I play the titular role. I’m also doing a project in Kannada. They’re all exciting and very different from what I’ve done previously.

4. Tell us about your Kannada film.
I’m doing my first Kannada film. It’s a challenging and exciting script. I’m not allowed to reveal more about it. Most of my relatives are from Bengaluru and they’d be excited to watch me in a Kannada film.

5. What do you look for when choosing a script?
I’ve been very clear about quality over quantity. Even if my character is in the film for just 20 minutes, I’d like it to be impactful. I want to challenge myself and do characters that I never thought I’d be able to pull off. Any role that scares me is what I’d love to take on. A lot of people tell me that I’m a very good performer. Even if I’m not the most sought-after actor, I just want to be a great performer. I’d like to be in films that let me be a performer. I just want to do good films. I want to put a smile on people’s faces when they watch my film.

6. Who are your favourite actors?
My mom used to watch a lot of Tamil, Malayalam and Telugu films when I was growing up. I love Revathi ma’am – she’s such a versatile actor and a complete package. After ten years, if someone tells me that I’m a versatile actor, I would be elated. I also admire Vijay Sethupathi sir – he’s a phenomenal actor. I like Nithya Menen as well and think she’s a fabulous actress.

7. Any dream filmmakers you want to work with or favourite genres?
I’m very greedy – I want to work with so many directors. But genre wise, I want to see if I can pull off a psychotic role. My friends say I’d be able to do it well ‘cos of my big eyes! (laughs).

8. What are your interests apart from acting?
I’ve started learning kickboxing. I’ve always wanted to do it and I was lucky to find an amazing coach. I don’t think I look forward to anything as much as kickboxing. Every morning, when I’m in Bangalore, I have a one-hour session and that’s my favourite part of the day. I also love reading books. I enjoy reading Tinkle! I also play cricket with my friends. I bowl, bat and field!

9. Tell us about your love for Bangalore.
The best part about Bengaluru is being able to go for a drive on Sunday morning, have scrumptious masala dose at CTR, go for a walk in Cubbon Park and life is sorted. And of course, I don’t forget to binge on Death By Chocolate at Corner House. Sundays and Bangalore are a match made in heaven.