"I had full faith in Gentleman"

Nivethaa Thomas has been described as an actress of immense talent. After 'Gentleman', she is poised to become one of the most sought-after actresses.  In this interview, she talks about working with Nani, what is special about Mohankrishna Indraganti, her academics, and more.  

Since the time 'Gentleman' was released, you have been flooded with compliments...

I am very happy with the feedback that I am getting. Thank you would be an understatement. From the time I heard the script, I had full faith in the project. I would say that everyone of us who have worked for this wonderful film deserve appreciation.

Had you known Nani before this project came your way?

I have watched all of Nani's movies. I think he is the best. He is my most favourite actor after Kamal Haasan sir. Like me, he too is a great fan of Kamal sir. I would love to work with him again and again. He improvizes a scene and helps something to come out in a better way.  Not just Nani, I bonded well with Surabhi, too. She is like a sister to me. I am missing her now. She is based in Delhi and I am in Chennai. But we keep in touch with each other. It takes a lot of honesty and courage to appreciate one another. (Smiles).  

Mohankrishna Indraganti is known for clean entertainment. How was it working with him?

He is like a family member now. He can think from several angles. The best thing about him is that he respects the opinion of his actors.  He takes their suggestions. For example, in the scene where I run after Nani's car, I told him it would be better if I jump across the road divider. He said, "Do it as you wish".  

Coming to you learning Telugu quite fast. Nani has complimented your grasping skill.  

(Smiles). I actually found Telugu difficult to begin with. Before I joined the unit, I was expecting people to know English or Hindi well.  But since everyone was conversing in Telugu, I wanted to learn it. I would have loved to dub for my role, but I had to back off because I was busy with exams.

On the academic front, how are things going?

I am doing graduation in Architecture. Two more years of education is left. I keep a lot of interest in Aeronautics.  As a school and college-goer, I used to find coping up with Maths quite difficult. I couldn't make it to classes because of the shoot schedules.  But my teachers and friends would help me out.

How are you planning to juggle Tollywood, Mollywood and Kollywood?

I won't fragment them. The only difference between these is the language. It's the same profession everywhere. I have so far got to act in all these industries. I wouldn't like to settle for only one language.  

Are you open for skin show?

I am not comfortable with skin show. The first criterion for me to like a character is that I should see myself in that role and feel like playing it. Then comes the director and my co-stars.  

Kamal Haasan once said that he will give you another opportunity to work with him. When is it happening?

I am in touch with Gauthami mam. I forward her my trailers and my work. Kamal sir hasn't watched 'Gentleman' as yet. Both Kamal sir and Gauthami mam are very supportive. They are very special to me.

What are your upcoming movies?

I haven't given a commitment to any.