The countdown has begun for the eagerly awaited release of Jr NTR’s next film, Devara, on September 27th. As the filmmakers offer a sneak peek into the world of Devara, all eyes are on Jr NTR, who is making his return to the big screen after a two-year gap since RRR. However, the film also marks the Telugu debut of actress Janhvi Kapoor. How significant is her role? Based on the posters and teasers released so far, she appears to be portrayed as mere arm candy. So, what drew her to the project?
The glimpses of Janhvi’s dance sequences with Jr NTR raise questions about whether her role is limited to enhancing the film’s glamour in what seems like a testosterone-heavy narrative. “So far, it looks like the leading lady is just there for a song and dance routine. Maybe there’s a twist, but it’s doubtful, as in the South, it’s always the hero who dominates,” a trade analyst comments.
“This is Jr NTR’s film through and through. It’s being marketed around him, and he’s the reason audiences will flock to the theatres,” adds an exhibitor. So why did Janhvi Kapoor, known for leading strong female-centric films like Gunjan Saxena, Mr and Mrs Mahi, and Ulajh, choose to be part of Devara?
“Janhvi has done several niche, female-driven projects over the past six years, both on OTT platforms and in cinemas. These films gave her ample opportunities to showcase her acting abilities. On the other hand, Devara lets her step into the shoes of the traditional film heroine,” explains film critic Joginder Tuteja.
Tollywood, like much of the film industry, remains largely an all-boys club, where female actors are often relegated to supporting roles, often as little more than props. “Mainstream Bollywood heroines who’ve ventured into Southern films recently haven’t had much to do. Even Alia Bhatt’s role in RRR could have been played by anyone, not necessarily an actress of her stature,” Tuteja notes.
Similarly, Kiara Advani is set to return to Telugu cinema with Ram Charan’s Game Changer. In 2018, she appeared in Bharat Ane Nenu opposite Mahesh Babu and Vinaya Vidheya Rama with Ram Charan, though her screen time was minimal, a stark contrast to that of the male leads.
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