Actress Rukmini Vasanth, gearing up for the release of her upcoming film ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’, has opened up about the nuances of her character. She described her portrayal as a journey of embodying a piece of her land, folklore, and faith, translating it into a cinematic form.

The film’s trailer, released on Monday, showcases Rukmini in the role of Princess Kanakavathi. Clad in a turquoise drape with golden-embroidered borders and adorned with elaborate jewellery, including a statement necklace, stacked bangles, heavy jhumkas, arm cuffs, a waist belt, nose pin, and maang tikka, she exudes timeless elegance.

Speaking about her role, Rukmini said in a statement shared by her team, "For me, Princess Kanakavathi has been one of the most special journeys of my life. It wasn’t just about looking regal, it was more about carrying a piece of our land, our folklore, and our faith in every movement."

She added, "I think that’s why the trailer feels so powerful because it’s the spirit of an entire culture shining through the glimpses. Kanakavathi is royal, yes, but she is also human and vulnerable. I had to surrender to her grace, but also to her grit. I can't wait for people to meet her in theatres."

Directed by and starring Rishab Shetty, Kantara: Chapter 1 promises a tale steeped in folklore, faith, and fire, with Rukmini Vasanth’s portrayal of Princess Kanakavathi at the center of its epic narrative.

The actress also has upcoming projects, including the high-octane NTR–Prashanth Neel collaboration and ‘Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-ups’.

Who is Rukmini Vasanth?

Rukmini made her film debut with Birbal (2019) and gained widespread recognition in 2023 for her role as Priya in the romantic drama Sapta Saagaradaache Ello – Side A and Side B, earning the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress – Kannada. She has since appeared in successful Kannada films like Bagheera and Bhairathi Ranagal, made her Telugu debut with Appudo Ippudo Eppudo, and entered Tamil cinema with Ace and Madharaasi, earning praise for her performances.

Born in Bengaluru to a Kannada-speaking family, Rukmini is the daughter of Colonel Vasanth Venugopal, India’s first Ashoka Chakra recipient from Karnataka, and Subhashini Vasanth, a Bharatanatyam dancer and war widows’ advocate. She was educated at Army School, Air Force School, and the Centre for Learning, and later earned an acting degree from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London. She will next appear in Kantara: Chapter 1 and Geetu Mohandas’s Toxic: A Fairy Tale for Grown-Ups.