Vijay Sethupathi on set: Samyuktha reveals what makes him 'different'
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Actress Samyuktha, known for her work in Malayalam and Telugu films, has opened up about her experience sharing screen space with Vijay Sethupathi in the upcoming film 'Slumdog – 33 Temple Road', calling his on-set presence a revelation that no camera can fully capture.
What Samyuktha Said About Vijay Sethupathi
The actress described watching Vijay Sethupathi perform in person as something that transcends what audiences see on screen. 'I'm a huge fan of Vijay sir. Watching him perform in person is a completely different experience. The way he transitions into a character is so seamless and natural. When he delivers his lines, it genuinely feels like they're coming from within. As a co-actor, getting to witness that process up close was truly special,' she said.
Samyuktha noted that his naturalistic approach to performance — the ease with which he inhabits a character — is what sets him apart, both from his peers and from his own on-screen image.
Her Role: A Character of Extreme Contrasts
Beyond her admiration for her co-star, Samyuktha also spoke candidly about the demands of her own role in the film. 'My character is a very beautiful one. I've never played something like this before. It has contrasting yet extreme variations, and that's what excited me the most. It challenged me as an actor, and I'm really happy that I got the opportunity to portray such a unique character,' she said.
The role marks a departure from her previous work, with the actress describing it as the most complex character she has taken on to date.
Director Puri Jagannadh's Effortless Style
Samyuktha also praised director Puri Jagannadh, offering a specific detail that underlines his reputation for efficiency on set. 'Everyone kept telling me that this film was going to be one of its kind, and once I came on set, I understood why. The way Puri sir directs is effortless, stylish, and truly beautiful. In fact, I should correct something people often say — he doesn't just finish shoots on time, he starts on time and finishes early. It's amazing to watch him work,' she said.
The observation adds to Puri Jagannadh's standing as one of Telugu cinema's most distinctive directorial voices, known for his kinetic visual style and fast-paced productions.
Release and What to Expect
'Slumdog – 33 Temple Road' is directed by Puri Jagannadh and is scheduled for a theatrical release on 19 June 2026. The film brings together Vijay Sethupathi and Samyuktha in what both the actress and the director have described as a distinctive, one-of-a-kind production. With its pan-South casting and Puri Jagannadh at the helm, the project is being watched closely by audiences across the Telugu and Tamil film industries.