Pragya Jaiswal is on a roll—what with back to back hits, Khel Khel Mein and Daaku Maharaaj. In an exclusive interview with Deccan Chronicle, the actor talks about what is it like working with Nandamuri Balakrishna and South actors on her wishlistKhel Khel Mein and Daaku Maharaaj, you seem to be the most familiar faces in movies. How does it feel to be busy?I feel very grateful, excited and truly blessed to be in the best phase of my professional life right now. I am still soaking in all the love that we are receiving for the film.How did you bag this role?I was visiting Tirupati when Bobby sir called me. We couldn’t speak properly, but when I returned, he narrated the film to me. It was a crazy coincidence— I walked into his office wearing a dhaga from Tirumala, and he had the same unique string from a small Hanuman temple in Tirupati. We instantly connected. From the call to narration, look test, and shoot, everything happened within 10-15 days. We started shooting in July and finished within six months. The film is already a blockbuster, touchwood! It’s been one of the most fulfilling filming experiences of my life. That’s how I am back to work.This is your second time working with Balakrishna in Daaku Maharaj after Akhanda. How was it working with him?Working with Balakrishna sir was an incredible experience. He’s a legend, inspiring in many ways, and there’s so much to learn from him. He brings utmost positivity, playfulness, and energy to the set, making the environment light and easy-going. He’s very friendly, chill, and easy to work with. When he’s in front of the camera, he transforms into the character. Lots to learn, lots of inspiration, and pure joy working with him. He’s unapologetically himself, no mask, just real. I feel blessed to work with him again, and it’s always wonderful working with him.Who are the Telugu actors on your wishlist?I want to do good films with really good roles, that’s my topmost priority. I would love to work with Allu Arjun, Ram Charan, Jr. NTR, Mahesh Babu, and Dulquer Salmaan. I have a long list, but primarily, I want to be part of good films, good stories, and play interesting roles.What’s the latest Telugu movie you watched and loved?I thoroughly enjoyed Kalki, a huge fan of Nag Ashwin Sir’s work. It’s futuristic, humorous, and great cinema. I also loved Lucky Bhaskar. Dulquer’s acting and the story were fantastic. I try to watch as many Telugu films as I can, it’s part of my job and my passion.“Khel Khel Mein” is much talked about. What’s your take on the whole movie? Is it practical in real life?I think a scenario like that can be practical in real life, but it depends on the couple. Maybe some couples don’t have secrets or need to hide things from each other. We made a fun film with a beautiful message. I feel blessed to be part of good films. “Khel Khel Mein” is one of my best characters. Naina is a firecracker with a big plot twist. I got a great character arc with many shades. It’s a good time for me right now.It had an interesting star cast. How was it working with Akshay, Tapsee, Vaani and Fardeen?It was a multi-starrer film that needed an ensemble cast. I couldn’t have asked for a better team. Akshay sir, Vaani, Tapsee, and Fardeen were amazing to work with. They treated me like an equal, and we supported each other. We improvised on the spot, and I am grateful for their performances that enhanced mine. Akshay sir said on the first day, ‘Let’s have fun, no pressure.’ We ate together every day. We sang songs, played games, and listened to jokes. It was a blast. The chemistry reflects on screen because we are friends in real life. I am happy and grateful to have worked with such professionals, wonderful teams, and wonderful films.What next after Daaku Maharaj?I am currently working on a Telugu film—“Tyson Naidu” with Bellamkonda Sai Srinivas. We have been shooting for some time and should finish in the next few months, aiming for a 2025 release. There are also a couple of other conversations happening, and you will know once they are confirmed.Are you open to exploring the OTT space?I definitely think OTT is the way forward. After COVID, people realised they can watch any content from home. Unless it’s a larger-than-life film, people are happy to wait for it to come on OTT. As actors, we realise OTT is what most of the nation is consuming. One must focus on that. OTT offers a lot more scope of work, with different kinds of stories being told. I am open to everything— films, OTT, or shows. I just want to be part of good projects and play interesting characters. Platform doesn’t matter, I just want to do great work.
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