Leaving the monotones to deal with themselves, here is Ashika Ranganath to live a life filled with supremely supportive people who understand the craft. The craft of acting is a gift; she says it should never sound monotone. If the modern era, people seep in, we have to possess the power of communication, compassion in its true essence for every person at the recipient end. The language was never an issue, and the expressions, the sign language, and the voice modulation helped create marvellous art, showcasing what an artist could convey, and they didn’t need words. Theatre Artists were capable of everything; they needed a sign, and our needs were satisfied. Before the silver screen was introduced, the theatre played a prominent role in bringing significant changes in acting. Now, we are stuck in an evolved era where anything and everything is possible. We are so comfortable in one language per se, Kannada, Hindi or English; there is a fear that, after some years, we will sound monotone if we stick to one particular language. This is the reason to learn a new language, talk in the new language, and adapt the best parts of any form of art, capturing its true essence.
Ashika Ranganath is an Indian actress who predominantly appears in Kannada and Telugu language films. Crazy Boy and Rambo 2 are some of her movies. Ashika is a lovely person. She is positive and humble to everyone. Ashika loved the stage. Every time she performed on stage, she felt like it was a dream yet a sweet reality. Ashika believes in the existence of a superpower; the superpower could be anyone or anything.
Ashika was born into a Kannadiga family; her elder sister, Anusha Ranganath, is also an actress. She studied at Bishop Sargant School, Tumkur and later moved to Bangalore for pre-in Jyoti Nivas College, where she auditioned for a Clean and Clear Fresh Face Bangalore contest, emerging as the runner-up of Miss Fresh Face 2014. She is constantly encouraged by her family and friends.Â
Ashika said,” My friends played a significant role in pushing me to the stage. I began to like it. I have received small notes in my notebooks wishing for me to play a major role in films. “
Ashika had her major break when she participated in The Clean and Clear Fresh Face Bangalore contest in 2014; this contest takes place every year. It’s happening even today. Bangalore Times has arranged this particular contest. Ashika was about seventeen years old; her pictures were on Facebook. Mahesh Babu happened to see her photos, and this is how she earned her first film. She was the runner-up of this contest. She also said contests like the above help acting enthusiasts make an impact and reach a major break in their acting careers. Director Mahesh Babu directed films starring Puneeth Rajkumar in the initial days of Puneeth sir’s career.
Her family was super supportive, and her first film was a breakthrough. She was capable of studying and acting at the same time, but she chose to finish her degree. She was extremely young and wanted enough knowledge to explore this incredible world. The directorial team of her first film helped her learn about the industry, during which her acting skills were sharpened. Ashika’s first film was Crazy Boy; she is known for her lead role in the same film, released in 2016. She was nominated for the Best Debutant Actress in a Leading Role Award by SIIMA for the same film.
Ashika said,” I am fortunate to have worked with every prominent director in the Kannada industry. The director is like the ship’s captain; we work as a team. On set, we create a new world. The director helps us sail better but has our back irrespective of whether the ship will sail or sink. The director ensures that our acting justifies the character at hand and the film is in its best form.”
Acting is a career in which you evolve and express yourself in ways one would have never imagined. Ashika considers herself fortunate to have been cast in so many films. She likes to believe that an actor is not born an actor, but the bits and pieces of oneself are not entirely showcased to the world. Many of us are unaware that Ashika is a phenomenal dancer; she was a contestant in Dance Karnataka Dance in its initial seasons. She was on television when no social media existed, and it was a great deal to be seen on TV then.
Acting is a career in which you evolve and express yourself in ways one would have never imagined. Ashika considers herself fortunate to have been cast in so many films. She likes to believe that an actor is not born an actor, but the bits and pieces of oneself are not entirely showcased to the world. Many of us are unaware that Ashika is a phenomenal dancer; she was a contestant in Dance Karnataka Dance in its initial seasons. She was on television when no social media existed, and it was a great deal to be seen on TV then.
Ashika loved the stage in her school days; she was pushed to perform, and she was a good dancer. Dancing always made her happy; it relieved her and filled her with happiness. She had seen the set during her teenage years and was fascinated by the set and recording. She also met a lot of artists. She wants people to live for their dreams, not push the opportunities at hand to reach somewhere impossible. If it’s meant to happen, it will find its way to reach us. Unleash your soul to try new things daily because we are humans, and our desires and passions change daily. Her parents played a major role in her success; Ashika says they are her backbone.
Ashika said,” People noticed me when I was trying to explore various art forms. I was noticed and wished to do the same for talented people when I can provide such opportunities. The choreographer who noticed me in school pushed me towards the reality show, and the Director who saw my pictures cast me. I owe it to the people because my entry into this was neither envisioned nor anticipated.”
Q. We are now aware that your sister is an actress. Did this fact help in the beginning of your career?
A. My sister has a positive impact on me. If my sister were not in the industry, I would have had second thoughts about getting in. Our family played a major role in our dreams. My parents are very supportive; they were the same at the beginning of my career. My sister and I were like the ideal sister duo back at school; she taught me how to dance and everything, and we performed together. I have a great amount of respect and love for my gorgeous sister.
Q. ‘You were nominated for the Best Debutant Actress in a Leading Role Award by SIIMA.’ Awards feel surreal, for sure. Anything to say about this particular award? This was your very first?
A. It was my first award; I was nominated for it about six times. The sixth time, I was honoured with it. Every nomination was disheartening for sure, but people always supported me. One of them told me I won their hearts with my films. Hence, awards were unnecessary, and it was so sweet of them. I was never fortunate enough to receive such an award; it felt surreal to hold it. I felt incredible, and I was numb. I was so proud of myself and wanted to have many moments like that in the future. My parents deserve the award.
Q. This industry has been a boon to many and bane to a few. How has this industry treated you? How does it feel to have been here for quite some time now?
A. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of this industry. My work is appreciated, and I am trying to redefine my dreams daily. Only some people are given such a stage to express themselves. The industry has treated me very well from the beginning of my career. I want to improve my acting skills to do better roles and explore different genres.
Q. How essential is jewellery to style an outfit?
A. I would style an outfit with jewellery when I want to make my outfit impactful. Adding a delicate earring to a simple outfit makes it look beautiful; the colour combinations are the key features in making an outfit unforgettable. Jewellery is essential; we are Indians, and our outfits are incomplete without jewellery.
Q. What do you look for when you pick up a script? Can you name one essential?
A. The directorial team, technical team and everybody contributing to making the film. I look for the basic nature of the script, the native touch. I might choose a basic script, but want to work with the right team.
Q. A movie in which you thought your acting was the best?
A. The movie Raymo. My performance was the best as of 2022. I loved my role and intend to do better in the next one.
Q. On a scale of 1 to 10, Rate yourself in all aspects of life.
A. We must ask my family, they know better. I would give myself an 8, and the reason is that I am balancing my career and personal life very well.
Q. Your favourite Animal is an Elephant. How was your reaction to the Oscars ‘The Elephant Whispers’ received?
A. I was thrilled, happy and excited to watch the film. Once I did, I knew why the film received the greatest honour in the Film Industry. Indian cinema is shining globally, and I’m glad our work is relatable and honoured globally.
Q. What is your regret?
A. I had signed a film with Puneeth sir, and unfortunately, it didn’t happen. I’ve always wanted to share the screen with him. This is my regret.
Q. What is the first thing you notice in a new person, someone you haven’t met before?
A. The Ability to hold eye contact is the first thing I notice in a new person.
Q. What kind of person are you?
A. I’m a peoples person. I like spending my time with my people. I’m happy and satisfied when they surround me.
Q. Is there anything you want to tell the people out there? The audience?
A. I want people to understand that gender just makes us biologically different and nothing more. Both female and male actors sharing the screen should be given the same treatment. See both ‘Male and Female’ as humans before you go on to the biological difference, and appreciate their work equally.
Q. Now that you are a part of a Magazine, You are on the cover page of ELITE Lifestyle. How do you feel?
A. It’s a proud moment for me. I always take a beat when I achieve something. I appreciate my work before I move on to the next project. I didn’t think this was possible because, as a child, I was fascinated by seeing movie stars on magazine covers. I’m glad I was given this opportunity.
Rapid Fire:
1. Favorite actors: Siddharth, Vijay.
2. Favorite actresses: Sai Pallavi, Samantha.
3. First Job: I participated in a dance reality show. I consider it my first job.
4. Favorite director: Rajamouli.
5. Favorite Animal: Baby Elephant.
6. Favorite month: My birthday month is August.
7. Favorite colour: White.
8. Favorite food: Biriyani.
9. My inspiration: Puneeth Rajkumar.
10. Who do you text the most? I snap my girl gang.
11. Favorite pastime: Hang with friends.
12. Last vacation: To Maldives with my girl gang.
13. Where did you grow up: Tumkur.
14. Favorite word from another language: Tamil; rumba.
15. Tell us about your upcoming projects: A medicinal thriller it’ll be released soon. A Love story is coming, and I am a part of a Telugu film.
