“Blackmail gave me the scope to go beyond usual paradigms” - Actress Teju Ashwini

Actress Teju Ashwini, known for her lively and colorful performances, is stepping into bold new territory with her upcoming film Blackmail. 

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mu. Maran, the edge-of-the-seat thriller features Teju in a never-before-seen avatar, marking a major leap in her cinematic journey. The film is all set for a worldwide release on August 1, and also stars GV Prakash Kumar in a leading role. 

After winning hearts in the viral song Patak Patak alongside GV Prakash Kumar, their pairing is now back on the big screen,  this time in a far more intense and emotionally charged narrative. Teju Ashwini, who has carved a niche for herself through energetic and youthful characters, takes on a serious and layered role for the first time.

“Blackmail gave me the scope to go beyond usual paradigms,” says Teju. “It was truly a new experience for me. Mu. Maran sir’s previous films like Kannai Nambathey and Iravukku Aayiram Kangal have always given prominence to strong female characters. So when I was approached for the female lead in Blackmail, I was thrilled to finally get a substantial role that let me exhibit emotions and perform with depth.”

Reflecting on her collaboration with GV Prakash Kumar, Teju adds: “I had already worked with GV Prakash sir in a colourful music video, but Blackmail is a complete contrast. It places both of us in a more mature, intense space. The film itself is technically sound and narratively thrilling, with unpredictable twists that will keep audiences glued from start to end.”

The film is written and directed by Mu. Maran, known for his sharp and gripping storytelling. Blackmail is produced by Deivakani Amalraj and presented by Jayakkodi Amalraj of JDS Film Factory. The film features musical score by Sam CS, cinematography by Gokul Benoy and editing by San Lokesh. The others in the technical crew include SJ Ram (Art), Rajasekar (Stunts), Baba Bhaskar & Sai Bharathi (Choreography), Sam CS, Eknath & Karthik Netha (Lyrics), and Suresh Chandra-Abdul Nassar (PRO).