Anshu Returns: Reclaiming the Spotlight, One Scene at a Time
After enchanting South Indian cinema fans in the early 2000s—especially with her memorable role in Manmadhudu—Anshu vanished from the limelight just as her star was rising. But now, after two decades away, she’s made a dazzling return in the Telugu blockbuster Mazaka. Luxurist sat down with the actress-turned-London-mum to uncover the emotions behind her comeback, the strength it took to reignite her dreams, and how she juggles glamour with groundedness.
“I was just a 16-year-old schoolgirl on set”
Anshu smiles warmly as she reminisces about her early days in the industry. “Manmadhudu was such a special experience,” she says. “I was fresh out of school, and everyone—from the director to the costume designer—treated me with so much care. I was this young girl figuring it all out, and they made me feel seen.”
It wasn’t just the camaraderie on set she remembers fondly. “Travelling for song shoots, especially abroad, was incredible. Indian cinema is famous for filming in scenic European locales, and those memories are forever etched in my mind.”
Despite the glittering beginning, Anshu made the bold choice to walk away from the spotlight. “I missed home. I was young and craved the comfort of family and friends. If all this had happened in my early twenties, maybe I would’ve approached it differently. But back then, education and belonging mattered more to me than stardom.”
Going Viral, Finding Clarity
Anshu’s return to the silver screen didn’t come through casting calls or auditions—but through a nostalgic video byte. “When Manmadhudu was re-released 22 years later, I recorded a message about working with Nagarjuna. That clip went viral—and suddenly, everyone wanted to know if I was coming back!”
The buzz stirred something deep within her. “I’d always had that itch to return, but I wasn’t sure when—or even if—it would happen. The reaction to that video felt like the universe giving me a nudge.”
Still, the decision wasn’t easy. “I had doubts. Would I be accepted again? I’m married. I have children. I live in London. But the love and welcome I received when I announced my return—it was overwhelming in the best way.”
Mazaka Magic: Stepping Into Yashoda’s Shoes
Mazaka marked Anshu’s triumphant comeback. “The script instantly struck a chord,” she shares. “It was a clean, family entertainer with heart—and I loved how passionate the writer and director were.”
Her role as Yashoda was a departure from past characters. “I played a young, ambitious woman in her early 40s, never married, without children. Very different from me, but still deeply relatable. The team was fantastic—generous with their feedback, open to collaboration, and made me feel at home.”
And while the experience was enriching, it wasn’t without challenges. “The biggest one? The language. Telugu isn’t my mother tongue. But I’ve been taking lessons and working hard on my lines.”
Self-Love and Social Media
In the age of Instagram and online judgement, Anshu’s learned how to shield her peace. “I had an accident during promotions and needed stitches on my head. I still went out to promote Mazaka, plaster and all. Some people accused me of using it as a publicity stunt. Others said it looked like domestic violence. It was cruel.”
Her response? Inner strength. “You can’t control what others say. You can only control your reaction. People often project their own insecurities through comments. I remind myself: their words aren’t a reflection of me—but of them.”
For those struggling with online negativity, she offers this: “Would they say it to your face? No. Don’t let it consume you. Believe in yourself, always.”
More Than a Mum
Many women find it daunting to return to work after becoming mothers, but Anshu embraces it with refreshing honesty. “Yes, mum guilt is real. But I’m going to say this shamelessly—I love myself the most. I’m obsessed with myself!”
That bold self-love has been a game-changer. “When you respect yourself, others follow suit. My kids were thrilled about my comeback. My husband, Sachin, is my number one supporter.”
She adds, “People would ask, ‘How will Sachin cope?’ instead of saying, ‘Wow, Anshu, we’re proud of you!’ But I choose what energy I let in. I’m selective with projects and make sure I have time for myself—my walks, gym, good food, quality time with family. It’s all about balance.”
The Evolving Face of Telugu Cinema
So much has changed since her early days in the industry. “There’s so much more talent now. And not just actors—technicians, VFX artists, editors—everyone’s getting their chance. That’s exciting. Cinema’s evolving, and it’s refreshing.”
If she could go back and talk to her younger self, Anshu would say: “Nothing is impossible. Even the word says ‘I’m possible.’ Visualise the life you want. Believe it. Live it. That belief will shape your reality.”
Style, Substance, and a Passport Full of Stamps
How would she define her personal style? “Comfort is queen,” she laughs. “One day it’s a glamorous gown, the next it’s a simple kurta or jeans and a tee. If I feel good in it, I rock it.”
And when it comes to indulgence? “Travel. That’s my favourite luxury. Memories are more valuable than material things. Fashion and lifestyle are lovely, but I want to make beautiful memories—with style, of course!”
Anshu 2.0: A Comeback with Purpose
Anshu’s journey is one of reinvention, resilience, and radiant self-worth. She’s not just a comeback story—she’s a reminder that dreams don’t have expiration dates.
“I hope people see that it’s never too late. Don’t wait for perfect timing. Trust the process, chase the itch, and never say no to opportunity.”
Credits for front cover:
Captured by: @pranav.foto
Styled by: @niha__varma
Outfit: @anupellakuruofficial
Jewellery: @bcos_its_silver
Hair and Makeup: @makeuphairbyrahul
Team: @venijoshna_m
Assistant: @barathkumar_palakurthi
Managed by: @theblinders.in
