Before her anticipated role in Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s ‘Spirit,’ veteran actress Kanchana, born Vasundhara Devi, is being celebrated for her transformative performances in Telugu cinema during the 1960s and 70s. With a career spanning over a century of films, Kanchana defied conventional portrayals of heroines, injecting energy and boldness that redefined the industry. Her journey from air hostess to screen icon is a testament to her unique charisma.
Kanchana’s entry into films was serendipitous. Discovered by director C.V. Sridhar on a flight, she was cast in the 1964 Tamil film ‘Kaadhalikka Neramillai,’ marking her impactful debut. This initial success paved the way for a prolific career in Telugu cinema, where she delivered numerous hits that established her as a household name.
Her filmography boasts a rich collection of memorable movies, including ‘Arjun Reddy,’ ‘Preminchi Choodu,’ and ‘Alakh Niranjan.’ Kanchana consistently chose roles that challenged the status quo, often standing out in male-dominated narratives. Films like ‘Veerabhimanyu,’ where she played Uttara, and ‘Ave Kallu’ showcased her ability to bring depth and presence to her characters, even within scripts centered on male leads.
Her recent appearance in ‘Arjun Reddy’ as the protagonist’s grandmother garnered significant audience attention, proving her enduring appeal. Now, Kanchana is set to grace the screen once again in the upcoming action thriller ‘Spirit,’ alongside Prabhas, Triptii Dimri, Prakash Raj, and Vivek Oberoi. While her role in ‘Spirit’ remains under wraps, her casting has generated considerable excitement among fans eager to witness the legendary actress in a new avatar.