When the cast of Mani Ratnam’s Chekka Chivantha Vaanam (CCV) was announced, everyone was surprised to know that a new face (at least for Kollywood), Dayana Erappa, was to play one of the leads.

Dayana is a Coorgi lass, an international model who has been in the fashion industry for more than five years; brought up in Bengaluru, but moved to Mumbai for modelling assignments… and now, a Kollywood actress, too!

But acting was never on her mind until Mani Ratnam’s project came by, she says. “I didn’t know if I was the right fit in cinema as I am tall and dusky. So, acting never crossed my mind. I was busy with my modelling assignments and even went to Milan for a couple of months.

One day, I got a call from Mani Ratnam’s production house asking me if I’d be interested in acting. Initially, I thought it was a prank call. Later, I tried to locate the person who spoke to me on FB and found that he was working in that production house. They asked me if I spoke Tamil and Telugu. Now I am fluent only in Tamil, not Telugu, but still, they asked me to send my pictures.

After three months, they said that their team will be in Mumbai to conduct auditions. I met Siva (co-writer of the film) sir and Shaad Ali (director and associate of Mani Ratnam). They gave me a script, I did an audition. Again, after a few months, they asked me to come for another audition, this time, in Chennai. Mani sir was supposed to be present for this one. I was super nervous, but he made me comfortable. Later, I was told that I am a part of the film. But it was only when they announced the title and cast officially, that I came to know that I was one of the leads,” says Dayana.

Then followed an acting workshop in Chennai for 15 days, and then, the shoot.

Dayana says her role is a stylish one. “We shot in Serbia — that was the schedule which we wrapped up recently. I was very nervous. Since I had a lot of time in between, I attended theatre workshops in Mumbai. I have no background in acting and I wanted to ensure that I when I go for the shoot, I am good. But the shooting was pretty smooth. Mani sir would say, ‘Kanna, do this’, or ‘do that’. He was really kind and knows exactly what he wants from an actor. I had a lot of doubts, but Mani sir said I shouldn’t be too technical in acting. Simbu is my co-star, and he, too, helped me on the set.”

So, what next? “I never thought I could be an actor until this movie happened. I am waiting to see the audience reactions. They say models can’t act, but I hope I have done justice to the role. So, let’s see.”

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> News> Entertainment> Tamil Nadu> Movies> News / by Sharanya CR / June 07th, 2018