Dubai girl makes film debut with 'Odiyan'

dubai - She plays the role of a young Manju Warrier in Mohanlal's new film

Ankita Anish, a 12-year-old 7th grade student at the Indian High School in Dubai, is living her dream, playing the role of a young Manju Warrier in Odiyan.

Known for her resemblance to the talented actress, Ankita had earlier recorded a few Dubsmash videos of Manju's famous Malayalam movie dialogues. At one point, the actress even shared one such video on her official Facebook page.

Director Shrikumar Menon cast Ankita after auditions. She also underwent a week of training under the guidance of groomer Atul Mongiya.

"I am a big fan of Manju Warrier and Mohanlal. I love their combination and am proud to be a part of this film. I was confident on the sets. I didn't have stage fear since I have done dance performances," Ankita told City Times.

She had to shoot for two days in a village in Palakkad during her summer vacation.

"Ambrattikutty is a small, but key role. It was the biggest secret in my life since the director had told me to keep the character under wraps. It was revealed to the public during the recent global launch of Odiyan held in Dubai," shared Ankita, who started dancing at the age of three.

Daughter of Anish John and Praveena, Ankita, who has a younger sister Pritika, has already bagged her second project. She aspires to be an actress and pursue classical dance as well.

She will be watching Odiyan at 6am on Friday in The Dubai Mall along with other Mohanlal fans and at 1pm with family and friends.

- deepthi@khaleejtimes.com