The upcoming film Thammudu, starring Nithiin and directed by Sriram Venu, is set to hit theaters worldwide on July 4. Produced by Dil Raju and Shirish, the movie features Varsha Bollamma, Sapthami Gowda, and actress Laya, who is making her Tollywood comeback. Laya, who plays Jhansi Kiranmayee, shared her journey and insights about the film, highlighting its unique brother-sister sentiment.
Laya’s return to cinema began in February 2023 when the Thammudu team reached out after seeing her YouTube interviews. Initially, the team felt her look didn’t match the character, but after a new photoshoot, she was finalized for the role. “I knew the story of Thammudu and felt it was perfect for my comeback,” Laya said. To suit the character, she gained weight by indulging in sweets and stayed in India for months to complete the shoot.
In the film, Laya portrays Jhansi Kiranmayee, a strict yet responsible officer who balances her professional and family life. She plays Nithiin’s sister, and their bond forms a key emotional thread. “The brother-sister sentiment in Thammudu is unique and unlike anything seen before,” she noted. The shoot, particularly in forest locations, was challenging. “We faced injuries daily—some scenes were shot barefoot, and stones hurt us. It wasn’t a picnic; everyone worked with full dedication,” she added.
Laya praised Nithiin’s professionalism and warmth on set. “He’s a star but behaves like a kid, mingling with everyone. His performance in this film is mature, and he handled tough scenes effortlessly,” she said. She also clarified that Thammudu shares no resemblance to Pawan Kalyan’s film of the same name, though the title fits perfectly.
Reflecting on changes in the industry, Laya noted the shift in promotions. “Earlier, we had audio launches and 100-day events. Now, there are multiple promotional activities with huge crowds,” she said. Having played relatable roles like Meena in Preminchu and Ratnamala in Missamma, Laya finds her transition to character roles seamless. “I’ve always been simple, never a star heroine. Playing a character artist feels natural,” she explained.
Laya left her job in the US to seize this opportunity. “Jhansi Kiranmayee is a strong woman who speaks little but with impact. She’s fearless and emotional,” Laya said, crediting director Sriram Venu for his clear vision and strict approach. Viewing the film during dubbing, she was impressed by its quality and emotional depth.
The forest shoot left a lasting impression, with injuries and illnesses testing the team’s resilience. “Even the director fell sick. It was tough, but the film has turned out exceptionally well,” she shared. Unlike her earlier girl-next-door roles, Jhansi Kiranmayee is a powerful character, and Laya appreciated the significance of every role in the story.Looking ahead, Laya is eager to take on meaningful characters. “I want roles that leave an impact—whether a sister or a mother. I’m a Hyderabad local, not a US artist, and I’ll be here when I have projects,” she said. Currently, she’s working on a film with Shivaji and is open to roles that drive the story forward.Thammudu promises a fresh narrative and a heartfelt sibling bond, with Laya’s comeback adding to its anticipation.
