From the ramp at the Miss Universe pageant to the big screen, Riddhi Kumar has been quietly building a diverse career with films like Pranaya Meenukalude Kada in Malayalam, Superboys of Malegaon in Hindi, and acclaimed web series, Candy and Crash Course. She made her Telugu debut with Lover and later impressed audiences with a small role in Radhe Shyam. Now, after three years, she returns with the Prabhas-starrer Raja Saab, marking a key milestone in her journey. In this candid chat with Priyanka Goud, Riddhi opens up about her evolution as an actor, her on-screen chemistry with Prabhas, and the dream roles she’s eager to bring to life.
On her journey from Lover, web series to Raja Saab
Honestly, I’d describe it as a beautiful ride filled with exploration, experiences, and constant learning. I started with Telugu cinema, then worked in the Malayalam, Hindi, and Marathi industries, which taught me so much about different cultures, creativity, and languages. I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with incredible filmmakers and actors like Prabhas, Adarsh Gaurav, Reema Kagti, and Kamal sir. Now, being back in Telugu cinema with Prabhas for Raja Saab feels like a full-circle moment. I’m truly excited to see how this new chapter unfolds.
On her bond with Prabhas, creating a huge buzz among audiences
I’m really glad audiences are loving our bond. The gift he gave me, which I wore in The Raja Saab, is just one small example of his big heart. As everyone knows, he’s a real foodie and loves feeding the people around him. Once, he even sent a whole carriage to the set with three types of biryani, non-veg curries, and fried items, all homemade, packed with flavour and absolutely scrumptious! I’ll always cherish the fun moments we had on set, and one beautiful quality I’ve learned from him is to be a giver, just like he is.
On the myth that actresses can’t be friends
I don’t know why people say heroines can’t be friends. With Malavika Mohanan and Nidhhi, our bond happened very beautifully and organically. We had some of the best conversations on set, and I truly believe women especially from the same field have so much to share and express. I learned a lot from their experiences, and yes, I enjoyed a little gossip too!
On Nidhhi Agerwal’s mobbing incident
I found the whole incident extremely uncomfortable to watch. I believe such issues should be addressed, but not by repeatedly circulating those videos they’re very difficult to see and should only be shared with the person’s consent and proper viewer advisories. Fans have immense love and admiration for artists, but love must come with respect and space; otherwise, it becomes overbearing. Incidents like this reflect the mindset we have toward public figures, and that’s something we all need to work on. Giving people space and being kind really matters. I’m glad Nidhhi has come out as a warrior.
On working across industries — Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam & more
Honestly, what I’ve learned is that creators are hustlers everywhere. Languages, food, and people may change, but teamwork and emotions on set are universal. The differences are more technical like budgets, scale of production, and team sizes but not the spirit. I’ve been privileged to work with amazing people from so many different backgrounds.
Looking forward to her new era of scripts
Yes, I do feel more confident now. Over the years, I’ve learned that every film is a bit of a gamble, so it’s best to trust your gut. With experience, I now have more leverage to choose stronger parts and read scripts from the audience’s point of view. After Raja Saab, I’m especially excited to explore stories of self-discovery films where the character goes through a meaningful arc, whether it’s a period drama or any narrative that keeps me engaged as an audience member.
On receiving fame and attention and how she manages
I don’t see attention and pressure as overwhelming, but as a natural by product of the work I do. This is an industry that runs on audience response; fame is part of the job. But to stay grounded, I deeply stay connected to my family.
Genres or roles she’s manifesting right now
I’ve always been keen on playing a detective or cop, doing a period drama, and also exploring a classic lover-girl role so I’m really hoping something along those lines comes my way. One of my biggest dream roles is to portray Rekha in a biopic based on her life, and I even once wrote a handwritten letter to Sanjay Leela Bhansali asking him to direct it!
Rapid Fire
Morning person or night owl? – Morning person
Coffee or chai? – Chai
Beach vacation or mountain retreat? – Mountain retreat
One hashtag that defines your life right now? – #livingit
