Entertainment

The Rise of Meenaakshi Chaudhary: Reigning Queen of the South India

From donning a crown in beauty pageants to delivering powerful performances on screen, MEENAAKSHI CHAUDHARY’S journey from dentistry to dazzling stardom is nothing short of cinematic. With a string of critically acclaimed roles across Telugu and Tamil cinema, Meenaakshi is fast emerging as a pan-Indian powerhouse.

With exciting projects lined up, including collaborations with Naga Chaitanya and Naveen Polishetty, her star power continues to soar, captivating audiences with her blend of talent, grace, and versatility. SINDURI VUPPALA catches up with the actress for an exclusive conversation, tracing her inspiring rise and what lies ahead.

Let’s start from the beginning—what drew you to acting, and how did your journey into Telugu cinema begin? Was the transition from pageants and dentistry to movies something you planned, or did it unfold organically?

I believe it was a destiny move for me, because I never thought of becoming an actor. I grew up wanting to be Miss India for sure, a doctor and probably in civil services. After I joined Miss India, I got a lot of other opportunities, which I never thought that I could possibly foray into. So, I gave everything a try because whatever comes my way, I never just let it go, and I thought I might as well try it. If I don’t like it, I can continue doing what I’m doing, and I think that’s how my journey began. The transition from pageantry, modelling, dentistry to getting into acting was truly something that just happened and I think when something’s meant to happen, it just finds its own way and that’s truly what happened in my case as well.

What inspired you to leave your dental career behind and pursue acting? Was there a specific moment that made you feel this is where I belong?

Honestly, I never really thought of considering dentistry as my first option, I wanted to get into civil services. Becoming a doctor was a safer option and my plan B. Even as I entered the film industry, I continued my dental studies and completed them two years later. I’m very happy and proud of the fact that I have that as an option any day, irrespective of if I continue to do it or not. I feel like it’s truly important to do what matters to you. For me, it was important, as it was a dream of mine to have doctor before my name and I wanted to make that happen anyhow.

Be honest, do you still find yourself checking your co-star’s teeth on set, once a dentist or always a dentist?

Guilty as charged. Yes, I do. I can’t help it! That’s literally the first thing I see because for five years of my life, that was what I was trained to look at. I think it’s become better now with time.

You’ve worked in both Tamil and Telugu films. How has the experience differed across these industries, and what’s been the biggest learning curve for you?

I think the only difference between the two industries is the language. Honestly, everything else is just the same, the dedication people have, the passion, is in the industry in terms of cinema, the craft. Everything is the same. And I’m so grateful to be a part of some of the greatest cinematic projects that have come out in the last few years in both the industries. And I hope to work more and more in both Telugu and Tamil.

With back-to-back commercial successes and critical acclaim, many are calling you the reigning queen of the South. How do you react to such a title—and does it come with pressure?

I think I’m honestly grateful for all the love and appreciation that has come my way because as an actor and as an individual, that’s literally what I strive to do every day when I go on sets, when I do what I must do. I believe success is earned every day, as no position is ever fixed, and no success is ever going to determine the lifelong title that comes with it. I think you have to be your best, and be at your top form every single day, to perform better. Eventually, it does show in your work, in your personal life, in the balance that you try and maintain.

You worked with some phenomenal co-actors and directors along the way. Are there any on-set memories or turning points that really shaped your growth as an actor?

Oh, I completely honestly feel like I’m one of the blessed ones to be getting the opportunity to work with one of India’s finest actors, so early on in my career. I’ve learned so much from these experiences. All of them are so amazing at what they do, and rightfully so, with the love and appreciation that they have from the audiences. But the one thing that I will say that is common in all of them is the dedication and the persistence that they have. No matter what, they’ll give their 100% towards the work and the film that they are a part of, which I think is same in all the actors that I’ve worked with so far.

Your performances have consistently shown growth. From playing a domestic homemaker in Lucky Bhaskar to your vibrant role in Sankranthiki Vasthunam, you’ve explored a range of characters. How do you prep for a role, and has your approach changed over time?

The best part about being an actor is to experiment as many genres as I can, with as many characters as I can. I do not put myself in one particular box, that this is the one thing that I’m going to stick with. I’ve been very, very lucky to be able to get certain films that help me get that side of my acting and my characters that I get to explore. In terms of prepping, I think it comes with the director’s vision, whatever they have in mind for the character that I’m playing. And I think a major part of it is seeing through their eyes because when they write a character, they build an entire world and an entire person. And I just try and get as close as I can to their imagination of what the character and the personality of that character is going to be like. So, I think more or less it’s just about sitting with the director, doing readings, understanding what they expect from the character, what do they see it like. That’s the process I follow for every role.

Speaking of Sankranthiki Vasthunam, what was it like sharing screen space with Venkatesh garu? Any stories from the set you’d love to share?

He’s one of the best people that I’ve worked with. He is so amazing, cool, and so young at heart. In terms of how active he is on set, I think all of us have so much to learn from him. But I think the best part about having to share the screen space with him was getting to learn so much about spirituality, about personal growth from him, which I got a firsthand experience of by discussing in between shots about what he thinks, what his ideologies are, which were very inspiring and refreshing to look at. And I think that has definitely shaped me into a better human, for sure.

You’ve also worked with Dulquer Salmaan and Mahesh Babu. What was your takeaway from those experiences? Any lessons or impressions that stayed with you?

Absolutely. I think both of them are such amazing actors, such wonderful human beings. They are so inclusive of everybody, of every actor on set, which is so amazing. You don’t feel left out at all at any point. And the best part that I learned from both of them, I think, was the dedication towards the craft that they have, like they’re constantly trying to give inputs in every scene that they do, when they’re performing. And that’s so amazing to see. So, I really got to learn a lot from them on the sets.

You’ve dabbled in action, romance, drama—do you have a favourite genre or character type that you feel especially drawn to? Or does the thrill lie in switching things up?

Oh, I would say bring it all. I love it all. I would love to try and explore everything! There’s nothing as such that I would want to try, but definitely something like a superhero character is very exciting to play because I haven’t had the opportunity to do so, yet. And a lot more of action, a lot more of romance, a lot more of drama, a lot more of thriller, basically a lot more of everything!

Looking Ahead

What’s next for you? Can you share anything about your upcoming projects? Are there new roles, collaborations, or genres you’re especially excited about?

Yes, absolutely! I am currently shooting for two films. Both are completely different from each other. And the characters are so contrastingly different from what I’ve done so far and from each other as well. One is with Naga Chaitanya and the other is with Naveen Polishetty. And they both are amazing scripts, amazing stories. I’m very excited for the audiences to see me in this new avatar in both films. And there are a lot more that are happening this year, which I think you’ll get to know with time.

Bollywood is often seen as the next big step for South actresses. Do you see yourself stepping into Hindi cinema anytime soon, or are you focused on building your legacy in the South for now?

I don’t really see anything as a stepping stone because I feel like every industry is so prestigious in its own way. I don’t really consider that they’re all different in any way. I hold them all in equal regard, to be very honest, because I love the work from all the industries. And as an actor, I feel like I’m very greedy to be a part of as many great stories as I can be. So, if something comes my way in the Hindi space, I’ll be more than happy to do it. However, I am so grateful and happy to be getting the kind of work I’m getting here as an actor, to be able to explore my own ability and to even just be a part of great cinema and storytelling formats. So, for me, it’s nothing like one language holds importance over the other. I’m very happy to do as much as I can in whatever language it may be.

Rapid Fire

A. One movie you watched and wished you had been a part of?

Oh, can’t really decide, there’s so many! Also, I feel like whichever character was played by an actor, has been completely apt. So, I can’t really think of anything!

B. One beauty secret Meenaakshi swears by?

Drink a lot of water and eat good food on time, literally!

C. Last thing you Googled?

Last thing I googled was recent released movies.

D. Your go-to mantra when you want to unwind?

Sleep, maybe go out, play some sport, hang out with friends, or do something different maybe read a good book, or watch a good movie.

Finally, your biggest guilty pleasure.

I love food, and I love to try all types of food. I try and maintain a healthy diet, but, sometimes on my cheat days, I go all out.

April 30, 2025

Exclusive Bollywood Interview: Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur & Pooja Hegde

Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde step into a world of love triangles, high-voltage comedy and classic Bollywood chaos, where every scene is designed to make audiences laugh out loud. Behind the madness of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai lies a fast-paced entertainer shaped by humour, music and family drama in true David Dhawan style. Hashtag Magazine brings you a glimpse into the energy, spontaneity and comic rhythm that powers the film. Varun Dhawan Q: How is this film different from your earlier David Dhawan comedies? Every film has its own madness. This one has double the confusion and double the fun. In a David Dhawan film, you have to stay alert all the time because he can suddenly change a scene, a reaction or even the way you say a dialogue. As an actor, you are always on your toes. You have to fully surrender to the comedy and conviction of the character. Q: Did you feel pressure working with your father again?Working with him is never easy because he pushes me the most. He won’t go easy on me just because I’m his son. In fact, he becomes stricter. There’s pressure, because I know the audience has expectations from a David Dhawan comedy and from our combination as well. He’s very clear on set. If something is wrong, he says it immediately. There’s no sugarcoating. Q: What was the toughest part of the film?Comedy timing is the toughest thing. People think comedy is easy because everyone is laughing, but it’s actually very technical. One second early or late, and the joke dies. Maintaining energy through chaotic scenes while keeping the rhythm correct was the hardest part. David Sir’s comedy looks effortless on screen, but while shooting, it’s extremely demanding physically and mentally. Q: Salman Khan joked

Entertainment

Turning Pages, Building Communities: Nidhi Gupta on the Evolving World of Reading

In a time when attention spans are shrinking and digital content dominates, the enduring power of books continues to find new ways to resonate. At the helm of Crossword Bookstores, Nidhi Gupta has spent over 15 years shaping not just a retail brand, but a thriving reading culture. In this conversation, she reflects on her personal relationship with books, the shifting habits of modern readers, and why bookstores today are as much about community as they are about commerce. You’ve spent over 15 years shaping Crossword’s journey. What role have books played in your own life, and which titles or authors have deeply influenced you personally and professionally? I’ve always shared a deep connection with books. They hold many roles in our lives, serving as companions, guiding us as teachers, and opening windows to perspectives we might never otherwise experience. Growing up, reading helped shape my curiosity and empathy, and over the years, it’s become integral to how I think and make decisions. I’ve been deeply influenced by authors who combine storytelling with insight, whether it’s literary fiction that explores human complexity or business writing that sharpens perspective. Professionally, books have taught me the importance of staying adaptable and constantly learning, which is essential in an ever-evolving industry like ours. In an age of short-form digital content and shrinking attention spans, how do you see the culture of reading evolving, especially among younger audiences in India? While it’s true that attention spans are being challenged, I don’t believe the desire to read has diminished. Younger audiences today are discovering stories in new ways, whether through curated recommendations, social media, or genre-driven communities. What’s encouraging is that when the right book reaches the right reader, the engagement is still deeply immersive. We’re also seeing a shift toward more accessible formats, relatable

Entertainment

Movies to Watch This Summer May 2026

From high-fashion drama to gritty psychological thrillers and action-driven regional cinema, this summer’s big-screen lineup offers something for every kind of moviegoer. Whether you’re in the mood for a nostalgic sequel, an intense character study, or a gripping continuation of a beloved franchise, these upcoming releases promise compelling stories, standout performances, and plenty of cinematic spectacle. The Devil Wears Prada 2 Language: English Drama, Comedy The Devil Wears Prada 2 is the much-anticipated sequel to the iconic 2006 fashion drama, set to release on May 1, 2026. Directed by David Frankel and written by Aline Brosh McKenna, the film revisits the high-stakes world of fashion journalism in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The original star-studded cast returns, including Meryl Streep as the formidable Miranda Priestly, Anne Hathaway as Andy Sachs, Emily Blunt as Emily Charlton, and Stanley Tucci as Nigel. New additions like Justin Theroux and Kenneth Branagh bring fresh dynamics to the story. The sequel follows Andy’s return to Runway magazine as Miranda struggles to keep the publication relevant. With Emily now leading a luxury brand holding the key to Runway’s future, the film promises drama, power shifts, and a stylish look at modern media. BandarLanguage: HindiPsychological thriller Bandar is a crime thriller directed by Anurag Kashyap, known for his raw, unfiltered storytelling. The film follows Samar, an ageing television star whose life spirals after a scandal lands him in prison, forcing him to confront both external brutality and internal demons.Premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, the film has already generated buzz for its dark, character-driven narrative and intense performances, particularly Bobby Deol’s transformative role. Sanya Malhotra is expected to bring emotional depth, adding another layer to the story. True to Kashyap’s style, the film explores themes of power, downfall, and survival within a harsh, claustrophobic

Entertainment

Between Film Sets and Mountain Escapes: Kayadu Lohar’s Journey

Long before the Tamil film Dragon became a cultural moment, Kayadu Lohar was quietly building her career across industries. A winner of the Everyuth Fresh Face, Kayadu stepped into cinema in her teens and gradually explored Kannada, Malayalam, Telugu, and Tamil industries with projects like Mugilpete, Pathonpatham Noottandu, Alluri, and Funky. But it was Dragon, opposite Pradeep Ranganathan, that turned her into a viral sensation, bringing widespread recognition and positioning her as one of the emerging pan-South talents to watch. In a candid conversation with Priyanka Goud, Kayadu opens up about sudden fame, navigating multiple film industries, and finding peace away from the spotlight through travel. Acting Was Always the Plan For Kayadu, acting wasn’t a coincidence; it was always the goal. “I always knew I wanted to be an actor,” she says. Winning the Fresh Face title during college became the first big push. “It gave me visibility, auditions, and belief. At just 18, I found myself travelling across cities for auditions, sometimes attending three to four in a single day. As a newcomer, you don’t always get full narrations. Many times, you say yes based on the production house or the hero attached.” Navigating Languages and Cultures Born into a North Indian family, speaking Nepali at home, fluent in Hindi and Marathi, and raised in Pune, entering South Indian cinema came with its own challenges. “South Indian languages aren’t my first language, so understanding the rhythm and culture initially took time,” she says. But over the years, she developed her own process. For Kayadu, learning a language goes beyond memorising lines. “If I’m doing a Malayalam film, I’ll only listen to Malayalam songs during that phase. Music helps me understand the emotion and culture behind the language.” The Dragon Effect Her performance as Pallavi in Dragon proved to