Radhika now ready to do fight scenes

Most Kannada film lovers will remember Radhika Chetan for her role in 'RangiTaranaga'. While she also impressed movies buffs with her roles in 'U Turn', 'BB5' and 'Kaafi Thota', the actor feels there is a lot more to be done.  

The actor has completed two of her movies, 'Asatoma Sadgamaya' and 'Hottegaagi Genu Battegaagi'. She is shooting for a strong role in 'Chase', which will show her in a bold avatar. Radhika takes time from her busy schedule to talk about the transformation for her role in 'Chase'.  

How is 'Chase' shaping out?
We are yet to complete the shoot. The movie has been shot in Bengaluru and Mangaluru.  The movie is an investigative thriller and I help in the investigation process.

The film will stand out in terms of story and screenplay for sure.

Are you playing an investigative officer in 'Chase'?
Nidhi, my character, is someone who is training to be a police officer. She is strong and intelligent. This is one of the strongest roles I have done till date. The audience will be in a for a surprise when they see my avatar on screen.  

Did you have to do a lot of homework to be Nidhi?
I have been a part of thriller movies before and I consider myself lucky that I was able to break the mould. I had to go through some intense practice sessions and fight classes for my character. One will witness some interesting fight scenes in the movie. Doing something new is always exciting and I am waiting to see how the audience will react to my character.

Any apprehensions about enacting the role?
None at all. In fact, I am very excited. Doing similar roles can be redundant and dissatisfying. I feel truly blessed and glad that elaborate characters are being written for female actors too. I hope this trend stays.

The transformation from dainty to daring -- how do you feel?
I have been seen in meek and soft characters before and I wanted to explore something new. As an actor, one always wants to keep exploring different things, which push one out of their comfort zone.

My role in 'Chase' is challenging.  There were times when I was shooting and I would remind myself to be less graceful and bolder as the character demanded it.  

I take a while to settle into a role. The challenging part was when we would take a few days of break and then resume shoot.  Every actor needs to know how to switch on and off.

Maintaining continuity can be difficult but these are obstacles that every actor has to overcome.