After years away from the silver screen, actress Laya is set to make a powerful return to Tollywood with Thammudu, a heartfelt family drama headlined by Nithiin. Directed by Sriram Venu and produced under the prestigious Sri Venkateswara Creations banner by Dil Raju and Shirish, Thammudu is gearing up for a grand worldwide release on July 4.
Speaking about her return, Laya says, Thammudu felt like the perfect film for my comeback. The story touched me deeply, especially the unique brother-sister bond it portrays.
Laya shared how fate played a role in her return: “I came to India in February 2023 and gave a few interviews. That’s how the team noticed me. They weren’t sure at first if I’d suit the role visually, so they asked for a new photoshoot. Once they saw those pictures, I was in.”
To suit the role of Jhansi Kiranmayee, she even underwent a physical transformation. “They wanted someone slightly heavier for the role, so I happily gained weight mostly through sweets!” she laughs.
In Thammudu, Laya plays Jhansi Kiranmayee a strict, responsible government officer who is also the elder sister of the protagonist (Nithiin). “She’s disciplined and powerful, but also emotional when it comes to family. It’s not a typical role there’s real depth, she explains.
Shooting in remote forest locations came with its share of challenges. We had injuries almost every day some scenes were shot barefoot on rocky terrain. But everyone gave their 100%. There were no breaks, no excuses.
Laya was all praise for co-star Nithiin: Though he’s a big star, he was always humble and cheerful on set. His performance in this film will surprise people he’s evolved as an actor.
She also spoke highly of director Sriram Venu: “He’s very particular about what he wants. The character he gave me is strong and fearless a woman who leads with conviction. I portrayed her exactly the way he envisioned.”
Reflecting on her earlier days in cinema, Laya noted the evolution in film promotions and audience engagement. “Earlier, we had simple audio events and theatre visits. Now promotions are massive. But even back then, I wasn’t chasing stardom. I always believed in letting my characters speak for me whether it was Meena in Preminchu or Ratnamala in Missamma.”
She adds, “Now, I’ve returned with intent to take up strong, meaningful roles. Whether it’s a mother, sister, or a central character, I want to be remembered for the impact I leave.”
Laya, who had been working in the US, left her job to pursue this opportunity. “I didn’t want to miss out on something so special. I’m a Hyderabad native, and when work calls, this is home.”
She’s already shooting for her next film alongside actor Shivaji and is excited about the path ahead. “I’ve done many roles as a heroine, but playing a character like Jhansi Kiranmayee gives me more satisfaction than glamour ever did.”
As Thammudu nears release, Laya hopes the audience connects with the film’s emotional core. “This movie isn’t just entertainment it’s heartfelt. The brother-sister sentiment is unlike anything I’ve seen before, and I’m proud to be part of a film that honors that bond so beautifully.
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