Teju Belawadi - Balancing Art, Yoga, and Stories That Resonate (Actress & Yoga Teacher)

 “Theatre is a very integral part of my being and probably even the way I understand life “

Q. Your latest film, Maryade Prashne, is receiving widespread acclaim. What drew you to this project, and how do you feel about its success?

What drew me to Maryade Prashne was its casting director, Sunayana Suresh. The film, though, says that it's a realistic revenge drama, families and elderly couples have come and poured love for it and it has been a beautiful experience witnessing audience reaction post shows.

Q. As a certified YAI 500 Hatha Yoga teacher, how has yoga influenced your craft as an actor and your personal philosophy?

Yoga has brought discipline to my life and it's teaching me respect routine. I don't know how it's affecting my acting career, but it's certainly keeping me very grounded in reality. I believe fitness is a basic human necessity and most certainly a necessity in this profession.

Q. Your performance in Gantumoote was lauded for its depth and nuance. How did you prepare for the role, and what does this film mean to you personally?

I think Gantumoote is a dream role for any actor who wants to delve into a spectrum of emotions. And Roopa Rao is someone who brings out my best performances. (You'll get to watch Asmin soon). I never thought I'd act in a film. It's been over 5 years since Gantumoote, and the love my role, Meera gets to this day is overwhelming and I'll always be grateful for it.

Q. Being part of the play Parva, directed by your father, Prakash Belawadi, must have been a unique experience. How did this familial collaboration shape your understanding of art and storytelling?

I've grown up watching rehearsals at home. Theatre is a very integral part of my being and probably even the way I understand life. My father always encouraged us (my sister and I)to understand technical aspects of theatre and films. I've never been cast in any major role under his direction. I'm his backup actor. If any actor backs out at the last minute or if there's an emergency situation, he knows he can depend on me and I know that I won't let him or the team down.

Q. Kannada cinema is evolving rapidly and gaining global recognition. What are your thoughts on the current trends in the industry, and where do you see it heading?

I'm too small to speak of where Kannada cinema is heading. But I think it is evident to all that it's becoming more and more challenging to bring the audience to theatres or to excite an audience.

Q. Your role in Gantumoote, which won the Best Screenplay at the New York Film Festival, marked a milestone for Kannada cinema. How did this recognition impact your career?

I'm recognised, to this day, as the Gantumoote girl. I'm proud of it. Initially I declined almost all the scripts that came my way after Gantumoote because my expectations of myself were different from the scripts I received. It took me a while to accept that we may not come across a film like Gantumoote very frequently. So I don't know how that film or its award affected my career. But people surely shower praises and it feels special.

Q. Your journey includes critically acclaimed films like Laughing Buddha. How do you select scripts, and what kind of stories resonate with you the most?

As I said, initially I declined many scripts because they didn't resonate with me or my expectations. My expectations changed over time. I select a script just out of gut feeling. I'm not a fan of dark/violent films. I just go with my instinct. Laughing Buddha and Maryade Prashne were easy choices..I loved the scripts. There was no second thought.

Q. What’s next for Tejaswini Belawadi? Are there any upcoming projects or goals you’re particularly excited about?

I'm Teju Belawadi. There are a few scripts that I'm discussing at the moment. I don't want to rush into anything. If these scripts workout, it'll be something you'll want to look out for. They are beautiful.

BIO:

Teju Belawadi is a versatile actor deeply rooted in theatre, thanks to her upbringing in a family immersed in storytelling and art. Her breakout role in Gantumoote earned widespread acclaim, and she continues to be celebrated as the "Gantumoote girl." Teju is drawn to nuanced scripts, choosing roles based on instinct and her love for meaningful narratives, as seen in Laughing Buddha and Maryade Prashne. A certified YAI 500 Hatha Yoga teacher, she credits yoga for keeping her grounded and disciplined. Teju's collaborations, including working under her father, Prakash Belawadi, in theatre, have enriched her craft. With exciting projects on the horizon, she remains a significant voice in Kannada cinema’s evolving landscape.

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Interviewed by Shashank