Sobhana a timeless icon in South Indian cinema, has been enthralling audiences with her stellar performances and classical dance for decades. From debuting at the age of 14 under Balachandra Menon’s direction to now working in Thudham alongside Mohanlal, Sobhana’s journey has been nothing short of legendary. Known for roles that modern-day actresses can only dream of, she remains a benchmark of versatility and grace.
In a candid interview with Behindwoods TV, Sobhana reflected on her experiences in the film industry, particularly addressing the evolution of on-set culture. She spoke about the growing “caravan culture” and how it has impacted the filmmaking process and artists’ connections with their roles and co-stars.
“Caravans Have Become a Metric for Artists’ Status”
Sobhana expressed her disinterest in caravans, emphasizing that they often create unnecessary detachment from the set and the creative process.“I don’t have a preference for caravans. Even if I say I don’t need one, they’ll insist I use it. Earlier, without caravans, we’d quickly change costumes and return to the set. The first thing I’d check on a set was whether there was a tree or a secluded corner to change. If the costume change was happening in a house nearby, I’d avoid wasting time traveling and do it on set itself. That way, I’d have more time to rest.”
“Adjustments Were the Norm for My Generation”
Recalling her early days, Sobhana noted how she and contemporaries like Khushbu, Suhasini, and Radhika adapted to the limitations of the era.“We understood the constraints of the set and adapted accordingly. Caravans often feel like a hassle to me. Getting in and out of one leaves my knees aching. It disconnects me from the set and the script. For example, if we’re shooting in a traditional house, staying on the set helps me connect with the space and the story. I also get to observe other actors’ performances, which enriches my understanding of the script.”
Sobhana feels caravans encourage distractions, leading to missed opportunities to immerse in the story and environment.
“When I’m in a caravan, I might scroll through social media or engage in other activities. It takes me away from the creative process. So, if the weather permits, I prefer to skip the caravan altogether.”
“Artists Today Are Judged by Their Caravans and Entourage”
Sobhana also remarked on the perception that an artist’s status is often measured by the size of their caravan or the entourage accompanying them. She believes this trend undermines the focus on talent and the artistic process.
Fans Embrace Sobhana’s Honest Perspective
Sobhana’s refreshing honesty has resonated with fans, sparking discussions about how the industry has changed over the years. While the conveniences of modern filmmaking are undeniable, her insights remind everyone of the raw, unfiltered passion that characterized the golden age of cinema.
