I want to introduce myself beyond Kannada cinema: Dhanya Ramkumar - The Times of India

When Dhanya Ramkumar received an invitation to represent the Kannada film industry at Film Expo India 2026 in New Delhi, she didn’t need a moment to think it over. The decision was instant. What made it even more special was the chance to see Kaviratna Kalidasa, the iconic film starring her grandfather, the legendary Dr Rajkumar, on screen at the event.“It was an instant yes. What really clinched it was knowing they would be playing thatha’s Kaviratna Kalidasa at the expo,” says Dhanya. She speaks to Bangalore Times about Kannada cinema, being a star kid, and the perceptions she wants the industry to let go of. Excerpts from a chat:‘Artistes today cannot afford to limit themselves to acting’Dhanya believes the expo will give her a platform to introduce herself to audiences beyond Kannada cinema. She says, “The film expo will not only bring all regions, actors and cinema under one roof but also give me a chance to interact with different schools of thought. I’m also looking forward to making myself known beyond Kannada cinema.”She also shares, “I’m always looking for ways to sharpen my craft. That search has taken me to places like Adishakti Laboratory for Theatre Art Research in Pondicherry, where I learnt how breathwork can change the way I perform. That’s when I realised the importance of making the most of every opportunity that comes my way and broadening my knowledge of cinema and of life itself.”‘I feel like the star kid tag hasn’t worked for me’Being the granddaughter of Dr Rajkumar comes with a legacy, but Dhanya feels the star kid tag has worked against her rather than in her favour.“I don’t want this to be perceived the wrong way,” she says, adding, “I’m someone who believes in equal opportunity for all. At the same time, I feel that the legacy of the Rajkumar family has worked in favour of the men in my family, but has gone against me. Of course, they’re all talented. I haven’t had as many opportunities as they have. I know I should have been more careful about the films I chose, but I’ve never had any qualms about putting in the hard work and effort.”She also feels the industry has preconceived notions about her because of her family background. “Yes, I come from the legacy of my grandfather and my uncles, but I certainly don’t come with baggage, airs, or tantrums. I don’t act like a diva on set. And what’s wrong if my mother accompanies me? I’ll put in long hours and do exactly what’s needed of me on set. All I want is for the industry to let go of the baseless perceptions about me,” she says.‘Thatha’s fans reminisce about the golden days of Kannada cinema’Speaking about how her grandfather’s fans often reminisce about the golden era of Kannada cinema, Dhanya says they also recall how his string of hit films helped keep the industry afloat during those years.“I think all the filmmakers and actors of that era knew exactly what audiences wanted. I remember that ajji was a voracious reader of novels. Whenever she would find something interesting, she’d tell thatha how it could make for a great film. And that’s exactly what he’d do,” she shares.“Some filmmakers have cracked the code of engaging audiences, while others are still figuring it out. What I’ve definitely learnt is not to expect anything, but to put my head down and work. Everything else is up to the audience,” Dhanya adds.Give your child the gift of confidence! Claim your exclusive TOI Masterclass spot today!