The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 provided a platform for veteran actress Suhasini Maniratnam to share a compelling and candid memory from her formative years in cinema. During a fascinating session titled 'The Luminary Icons: Creative Bonds and Fierce Performances,' Suhasini captivated the audience with a behind-the-scenes account of her early days, particularly recalling the palpable sense of awe she felt working alongside Telugu cinema titan, Chiranjeevi.

From Behind the Lens to Centre Stage: A Dauntless Transition

Suhasini's journey into acting was an unusual one, as she initially honed her skills and passion behind the camera, working as a trained cinematographer. The shift to performing in front of the lens proved to be a significant and intimidating change. She openly admitted to feeling overwhelmed by the sheer scale and intensity of large film productions, a feeling many debutantes experience.

"The film set intimidated me," she confessed during the IFFI session. She recounted the atmosphere on famous studio floors, like those at Vijaya Vauhini, describing how the sheer size and activity could be momentarily paralysing. She vividly explained, "There’s this hush that falls over everyone, and suddenly you’re unsure of what to do," capturing the sense of sudden pressure when the director calls 'action.' Her revelation resonated deeply, illustrating that even future stars grapple with the initial discomfort of a new, high-pressure environment.

Intimidated by the Megastar

Beyond the grand architecture of the studio sets, Suhasini revealed that the presence of the established artists themselves added to her initial nervousness. She singled out none other than Megastar Chiranjeevi, with whom she was collaborating early in her career.

For a newcomer, stepping onto a set with an imposing figure like Chiranjeevi—who was already a formidable force and a rising phenomenon in Telugu cinema—was naturally daunting. Suhasini’s transparency in admitting she felt intimidated by the megastar is a telling detail, humanising both her own experience and Chiranjeevi’s powerful on-screen and off-screen aura. It highlights the immense professional gap and sense of reverence a junior artist might feel towards a towering industry veteran.

The Human Element of Stardom

Suhasini Maniratnam’s honest reflection is more than just a nostalgic anecdote; it offers a crucial insight into the vulnerable beginnings of a successful career. Her story serves as a reminder that behind the glamour and confidence of a seasoned performer lies a history of overcoming initial fears and navigating the immense pressure of the industry.

The IFFI 2025 session underscored the value of sharing these personal memories. Such candid revelations from 'Luminary Icons' like Suhasini help demystify the process of filmmaking for enthusiasts and aspiring artists alike, proving that even the biggest stars start somewhere with a touch of stage fright. Her experience working through that initial intimidation with a powerful figure like Chiranjeevi ultimately shaped her into the versatile, celebrated actress she is today.
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