Despite her diligent efforts, Kannada actress Archana Jois continues to struggle with shedding the image she acquired from her role as Rocky Bhai’s mother in the KGF series. Since then, her filmography has not expanded significantly, with Kshetrapati being the only notable exception, where she portrayed a journalist and the romantic interest of Naveen Shankar, a stark contrast to the KGF-type roles she frequently receives. Yet, in her upcoming project, the courtroom drama Yuddhakaanda – Chapter 2, she finds herself cast as a mother once more. How did this come about?

Why Archana Jois went ahead and took up another 'mother' role in Yuddhakaanda

Archana explains that when she was initially approached for the film, she was informed that she would be the lead in a Krishna Ajai Rao production. Eager for a change after being typecast post-KGF, she quickly agreed. “When they mentioned the heroine role, I believed filmmakers were beginning to see me differently as an artist. Upon hearing the story from director Pavan Bhat, I realized that the heroine's character was substantial, not merely a love interest; she is also a lawyer. I was captivated by the character of Niveditha, a mother whose child is a victim of abuse and is central to the narrative. I was curious about who would portray Niveditha,” Archana recounts.

When she inquired about the casting, Pavan promptly asked if she would take on the role, to which she replied that she needed time to consider it. Archana notes that this was a strategic move by the filmmaker to plant the idea in her mind and steer her towards the role he desired. According to Pavan’s account, he had initially approached Archana for the role of Niveditha, which she had declined, prompting him to return with the offer of the heroine’s character, only to subtly guide her back to accepting the original role.

Archana acknowledges that it took her some time to respond to the team due to her uncertainty about being typecast in specific character roles. "I found myself torn between wanting to pursue only heroine roles and being captivated by the character of Niveditha and the narrative, which I felt was important to share. The role offered significant opportunities for performance, even more so than Ajai sir's role, which ultimately influenced my decision," she explained.

Yuddhakaanda Chapter 2 is set to premiere in theaters on April 18.

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