MEGNA MUKHERJEE, a finalist in Miss India and a successful model in high-profile ad campaigns, makes her Telugu film debut with Baraabar Premistha.
The beautiful actress with a winning personality stars opposite leading man Chandrahass in this romantic drama set to hit cinemas on Friday (11). She has invested considerable effort into the project and is thrilled about its release, marking an exciting chapter in the career of this ambitious and talented young leading lady.
Eastern Eye caught up with Mukherjee to discuss her film, hopes, and inspirations.
What first connected you to creativity?
I’ve always enjoyed being on stage, even as a kid. When I’m in front of the camera, I feel like a child again – a feeling I never want to lose, which influenced my career choice.
Was the plan always to move from modelling to acting?
I’ve always aspired to be an actor. Not being from the industry, I looked for ways to become visible. I started with a fresh face, participated in Miss India, and then acted in commercials. One of my ads with Sourav Ganguly went viral, leading to my first film contract.
Tell us about your debut movie?
Baraabar Premistha is a refreshing story about two 19-year-olds from different villages who fall in love. While it might seem simple, their villages are enemies, which complicates their relationship. This project is very special to me; I’ve put my heart and soul into my character.
What was the biggest challenge of playing this specific role?
Having lived in a city all my life, it was challenging to embody a village girl. I spent time in villages in Telangana before shooting to better understand my character and surroundings.
What is your favourite moment from Baraabar Premistha?
You’ll have to watch the movie to find that out.
Baraabar PremisthaWhat are your plans going forward?
I’ve already signed another exciting project in Tollywood. I believe the southern film industry provides ample opportunities for those with beauty and talent, and I hope to continue working in Tollywood for a long time to come.
Who do you hope this film appeals to?
While it’s a young love story, it resonates with every age group, as everyone has experienced this kind of love at some point.
Do you have a dream role?
Shanti Priya from Om Shanti Om closely resembles my dream role.
Who would you love to work with?
It would be a dream to work with Shah Rukh Khan from Bollywood and Prabhas from Tollywood.
Tell us something about you that not many people know.
I am a pescatarian, I love drawing cartoon characters, and I play the piano.
What is your favourite film as an audience?
My all-time favourite Bollywood movie is Om Shanti Om.
What inspires you?
Self-growth inspires me. I stand by the notion of thinking big and making it happen.
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Big B defends his choice to praise Abhishek openly and others privately
Amitabh Bachchan reveals why he praises Abhishek publicly but not Jaya or Aishwarya
Quick highlights:
Amitabh Bachchan has responded to online comments asking why he often praises son Abhishek Bachchan on social media but not wife Jaya Bachchan, daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai, or daughter Shweta. The actor explained that while he chooses to support Abhishek publicly, he honours the women in his family privately, saying he prefers to respect them “in his heart.”
Bachchan defends Abhishek praise, addresses fan remarks online
The 81-year-old actor, who regularly shares photos and thoughts with fans, recently posted images of himself meeting admirers outside his Mumbai home, Jalsa. Captioned “Yes, I praise Abhishek. So?”, the post sparked comments from users questioning why he doesn’t do the same for Jaya, Aishwarya, or Shweta.
Responding directly, Bachchan wrote, “Yes, I shall praise them in my heart… not publicly… respect for the ladies.” His reply quickly circulated across platforms, with many praising his thoughtful answer. Others pointed to his tendency to engage more often when defending Abhishek, especially around film releases.
Bachchan also shut down a user accusing him of having “paid fans,” bluntly replying, “Prove it! You are small-minded… why don’t you pay and get fans too?” When another person mocked those waiting outside his home as “unemployed,” he replied with characteristic wit: “So give them a job? When they stand at the gate of Jalsa, they are EMPLOYED in love.”
Actor remains active on social media while juggling film projects
Bachchan has become increasingly interactive online in recent years, often directly responding to criticism and fan feedback. Meanwhile, Abhishek was last seen in Housefull 5, a multi-starrer comedy that released earlier this month. Jaya Bachchan appeared in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani in 2023, while Aishwarya Rai was part of Mani Ratnam’s Ponniyin Selvan films. Despite the online chatter, Amitabh continues to walk his own path, on-screen and online.