By: IANS | Hyderabad | Published: November 14, 2018 2:47:08 pm

Ileana DCruz is returning to Telugu films with Amar Akbar Anthony. (Photo: Instagram/ Ileana DCruz)

Ileana DCruz, who has made a comeback to the Telugu industry after six years with the forthcoming film Amar Akbar Anthony, says she never quit her career in the south to build one in Bollywood.

In a group interaction, she told IANS that it wasnt a conscious decision to move away from Telugu filmdom.

“People have always had misconceptions about my career. After I signed Barfi, I was shocked to read reports that I have quit Telugu cinema for Bollywood. These were baseless allegations and its time to put them to rest. Why will I give up an industry which has given me an identity,” Ileana asked.

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In 2012, she made her Bollywood debut with Ranbir Kapoors Barfi!, which was followed by films such as Phata Poster Nikla Hero, Happy Ending, Rustom, Baadshaho and Raid.

“When I was shooting for Julayi, I got an offer to work in Barfi!. It was a project with an interesting story and I didnt want to miss. I even consulted exploring the opportunity with director Trivikram and he was very happy for me. Even without knowing anything about my role, he pushed me to accept the offer,” she said, adding she got so busy in Bollywood post “Barfi!”, she had to miss out on several Telugu offers.

“Its just that I was getting really good work in Bollywood that I didnt have time for Telugu films. Also, after a point, I was being approached for dance numbers by Telugu filmmakers and I was not excited about these offers. Therefore, I waited for the right film to return and thats how Amar Akbar Anthony happened,” she clarified.

In Sreenu Vaitla directed Amar Akbar Anthony, Ileana has teamed up with Ravi Teja for the fourth time.

Talking about the project, she said: “There couldnt have been a better Telugu film to make a comeback. It has all the ingredients to be your regular commercial potboiler and has a wonderful story. For the first time, Ive played a complex role with many layers. Ive also dubbed in my own voice in Telugu.”

Also read | Amar Akbar Antony will be a bigger success than our previous films: Sreenu Vaitla on working with Ravi Teja

Ileana says she wants to do films that will be remembered for a long time.

“I started my career when I was 20 and over the years have done all kinds of films. Now Im 32, and there is remarkable change in my thought process and personality. I have been making some sensible choices and I want it to reflect in the films I do. I want to be part of films that will be remembered for a long time,” she said.

As the conversation veered towards her personal life and relationship status, she said shes in a happy space.

“I have evolved as a person and Im neither pregnant nor married. After coping with depression, I have become mentally strong. My working relationship with people has also changed for good. I know Im happy with my relationship status and Id like to keep it that way,” she added.

Asked to comment on the #MeToo movement and how it has gained momentum, she said that its time to break the silence.

“I am glad women are opening up even though we know its very scary. Small things can make a lot of difference and this is a good start,” she said, refusing to talk about her personal experiences. “Its best if we dont go there. When I want to talk about it, I will.”

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