Thanuja makes promising acting debut with ‘Podu’

Well-known television personality Thanuja Jayawardana has won the hearts of millions as a gifted presenter and host, in her career spanning more than two decades.

This charismatic girl has never hesitated to take up new challenges.

For the first time, Thanuja is now playing the character of a journalist called Vasugi in TV Derana’s newest television mini series ‘Podu’ which is being telecast every Saturday and Sunday at 8.30 pm.

We spoke to her about her newest experience in the small screen as an actress.

What do you love most about being an actor?

The most rewarding factor about being an actor is the unconditional love you receive from the masses. As a TV presenter I have been blessed with this unconditional love for the past 23 yrs. I am used to that life. Also, the kind of experiences that you get to live as an actor is unparalleled. You live different lives. You travel, you learn so many skills personally and professionally, but I don’t think that I will go to that extent in acting. In Podu, as an actor, I feel like a child left in a playground to play and explore. A good director and team won’t let you fall off that swing. There’s a sense of both freedom and challenge. It’s like working in wonderland.

 What were your biggest pointers that made you say yes to Podu?

The main reason was  director Sharmila Dharmarasa Fonseka, my keenness to learn something new, to have a brand new experience with the character and with the other actors and the crew. Initially, I was worried if I could act but Randika Gunathilaka and Sham instilled the confidence in me making things easier for me.

 Tell us about your first day on the sets…

 The first day on the ‘Podu’ sets was special and unique too, with goosebumps and nervous red ears.  I didn’t prepare the way I prepare myself as a TV presenter. I was a bit worried about my hair. I missed my blowdry hair with a volume. ha ha…

When I walked towards the sets for my first shoot at Derana head office, I thought I would need some 7-8 takes for each shot. After Sharmila okayed the take I swiftly walked upto the playback monitor and checked. The director was ok with that  and paused for a moment and looked me in the eye with a settling smile. I remember only that moment.

 What was the one most difficult thing you had getting used to when on the sets?

Nothing. I enjoyed the whole process. It was a huge production and I took that time to learn something new. it was a fulfilling and enriching experience for me.

 How has life changed after Podu?

Not changed in any way. I’m still the same person. My sense of security and confidence is the same. I’ve always been assured about my choices. Because they weren’t choices with any agendas. The thrill comes from the work and not from the result. The success was a pleasant surprise but I’m not charmed by the idea of being popular. I just want to be inspired and feel that fire.

 Who’s your biggest critic?

My sister is my biggest critic. She says it bluntly – what’s right, what’s not.

What does success mean to you?

Success is a fine balance between contentment and ambition. You can’t be over-ambitious or over-contented. It has to be somewhere in the middle.‘Rasa Rasi Gee’ to the present-day ‘Thaala Baashana’ and ‘Ape Sinduwa’, not forgetting ‘Cash Taxi’.

Tomorrow her name will perhaps emerge on top when we talk about the success story of TV Derana’s mini series ‘Podu’ too.

– Zanita