Jyotika, poised to grace the screen in “Srikanth” alongside Rajkummar Rao, reflected on her Bollywood journey and resurgence in the South entertainment industry.
Having debuted in the 1997 film “Doli Saja Ke Rakhna,” Jyotika initially struggled to make a mark in Bollywood. Her performance failed to resonate with audiences, prompting a shift to the Tamil film industry, where she soared to prominence as one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation. After her return to Bollywood with “Shaitaan,” she now embraces the role of Rajkummar Rao’s mentor in “Srikanth.”
In an interview, Jyotika shared her thoughts on re-entering the Hindi film industry and her decision to pursue a career in the South. Expressing delight at the blend between North and South cinema, she highlighted the synergy between talents from both regions. Reflecting on the evolution of Bollywood since her debut, she admitted to being unfamiliar with the current landscape.
Recalling her initial struggles in Bollywood, Jyotika revealed, “I didn’t get work post my debut film, so I moved down South and built my career there.” She recounted facing no roadblocks in the South and emphasized the lack of opportunities in Bollywood following her debut.
When asked about her preferences for future Bollywood projects, Jyotika humorously suggested that film titles should start with ‘S,’ in line with the buzz surrounding “Shaitaan” and “Srikanth.” She expressed a desire for roles that empower women, emphasizing the importance of portraying multifaceted female characters on screen.
“Srikanth,” slated for release on May 10, 2024, features a stellar cast including Rajkummar Rao, Sharad Kelkar, Jyotika, and Alaya F in pivotal roles. As Jyotika prepares to captivate audiences once again, her journey serves as a testament to resilience and the pursuit of excellence in the world of cinema.