Shraddha Srinath on Mechanic Rocky, being an actor, playing Maya, pairing with Vishwak Sen, and the thrills of the film
Shraddha Srinath has particularly been noted for roles in films like Vikram Vedha, Jersey, and Krishna and his Leela. Ahead of the release of her Telugu film, Mechanic Rocky, Shraddha shares insights into her character, creative process, and approach to choosing projects.
Shraddha portrays Maya, a character she describes as pivotal to the film’s narrative and Vishwak Sen’s character, Rocky. “Playing Maya was fun. She contributes significantly to Rocky’s universe,” Shraddha explains. “I always approach my characters as contributors, like the people in our lives who shape us in various ways. I asked myself, ‘What is Maya bringing to Rocky’s life? How does she fit into his world?’ That clarity helps me connect deeply with my roles.”
The actor was actively involved in shaping her character’s appearance, advocating for a short-haired look that was initially met with hesitation from the team. “My director and team had their reservations, but I assured them it would work,” she asserts. “I told them to just watch.”
Shraddha has high praise for her co-star Vishwak Sen, noting his infectious energy and dedication. “Vishwak is an actor who makes you want to push harder. Sometimes, just observing his energy, I felt the need to amp myself up. A good co-actor always elevates your performance.”
The film also stars Meenakshi Chaudhary, with whom Shraddha shares screen space. Reflecting on their camaraderie, Shraddha shares, “There’s meaningful scope for both our characters. No one will feel like their role was sidelined. Meenakshi and I hit it off quickly. We’re both army kids, and it’s refreshing to connect on shared experiences. As actors, we’re all vulnerable and seek validation, whether it’s through good reviews or the audience’s love.”
Being noted for her choice in films and her interest in playing strong roles, she reflectes on her childhood and says, “Growing up, we moved frequently, and that instilled in me a craving for variety. I carry that into my work, I look for something unique in every project. After Jersey became a big hit, I was offered several similar roles of a young mother, but I declined. I didn’t want to be typecast. My character Sarah in Jersey was well-written and author-backed, and I look for that same quality in every project I take up.”
Shraddha admits that her career path has been a mix of highs and lows, but she’s content with her decisions. “I don’t have a godfather in the industry. I’ve had to make my own choices and stand by them. For me, even if I have just two releases a year, it’s important that the films have at least one strong selling point, a great producer, a notable banner, or a memorable script.” As an actor who has successfully worked in Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam cinema, Shraddha appreciates the flexibility that female actors enjoy. “If there’s a waiting period in one industry, there’s always an opportunity in another. It keeps us busy and allows us to explore diverse stories.”
Looking ahead, Shraddha expresses a desire to take on a period drama or a futuristic sci-fi like Kalki. “People often say I have a very Indian face that would suit a royal period look. I’d love to explore that. At the same time, I know I have a knack for comedy, and I’d like to try more roles in that space.”
After Mechanic Rocky, Shraddha has several projects lined up. In Telugu, she will star alongside Nandamuri Balakrishna in Daaku Maharaaj. On the Tamil front, she’s making her debut in the web series space, as well as collaborating with Vishnu Vishal for an upcoming film.
Mechanic Rocky is coming out on November 22, which will clash with Satyadev’s Zebra. Directed by debutant Ravi Teja Mullapudi and starring Vishwak Sen in the titular role, the film is billed as an action entertainer with a triangular love story at its core. Produced by Ram Talluri under SRT Entertainments, the film also features a supporting cast that includes Naresh, Sunil, Raghu Ram, Hyper Aadi, Harsha Vardhan, and Viva Harsha. Speaking about the high-octane drama, Shraddha concludes, saying, “Mechanic Rocky is not the kind of film you can reveal much about. There’s constant thrill and excitement. It’s best experienced in theaters. That’s one thing I can say.”
