Genelia's Decade Away: Motherhood & Maya!

Genelia Deshmukh, who rose to fame with the 2006 hit Bommarillu, has made a significant return to South cinema after a 13-year hiatus. Her latest venture is the Telugu-Kannada bilingual film Junior, where she plays a motherly role. Deshmukh views Hyderabad as a cherished 'home away from home,' noting a profound sense of belonging and gratitude for the city's warmth and opportunities.

She reflects on her career, expressing gratitude for playing deeply etched characters throughout her time in Tollywood. Deshmukh consciously chose a decade-long break from acting to focus on motherhood and her family, a decision she describes as a personal and fulfilling path. This period also allowed her to explore roles as a producer and entrepreneur, supported by her husband's invaluable encouragement.

Deshmukh advocates for a unified view of Indian cinema, rejecting the old notion of a North-South divide. She has witnessed and is proud of Telugu cinema's remarkable growth, especially post-Baahubali. Her return also highlights her strong commitment to family values, ensuring her children never come home to an empty house, a testament to her role as a parent.

She fondly remembers her mother's emotional reaction to her impactful performance in Bommarillu, a role that earned her critical acclaim. Deshmukh's perspective on cinema is rooted in storytelling, celebrating the collective success of films across India and wishing continued heights for the industry.