“I Truly Believe in Subham. It Has Turned Out Beautifully” – Samantha Opens Up About Her Debut as Producer
Actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu, who has won hearts with her performances across South Indian cinema, is now donning a new hat — that of a producer. Her maiden production venture Subham, under her banner Tralala Moving Pictures, is all set for a global theatrical release on May 9. Ahead of its release, Samantha spoke candidly with the media, sharing her journey from actor to producer and her deep connection to the project.
A New Kind of Friday Nervousness
“Fridays are always emotional for actors — we wait to see how audiences receive our work. But this Friday feels different. It’s my first as a producer, and I’ve been incredibly anxious,” Samantha confessed. “This past week, I’ve barely slept. Our post-production team has been working non-stop. My respect for the behind-the-scenes crew has grown tremendously. I can proudly say Subham has shaped up really well — it’s a film with heart and a story I truly believe in.”
Why She Chose to Produce
After a temporary break from acting, Samantha reflected deeply on her next steps. “There was a phase when I wasn’t sure if I’d return to acting. That uncertainty gave birth to a new idea — if I couldn’t act, why not make films instead? Having spent nearly 15 years in this industry, I felt ready to create stories from behind the camera. That’s how Subham was born.”
The team quietly began production without any major announcements and wrapped up the film in just eight months.
The Meaning Behind Subham and Tralala
Explaining the film’s title, Samantha said, “Subham is closely tied to the story, which revolves around a television serial. In most Indian serials, viewers eagerly wait for that final ‘Subham’ title card — the end. That concept fits perfectly with the narrative.”
As for her production house, the whimsical name Tralala Moving Pictures has a charming origin. “It comes from a childhood rhyme — ‘Tralala, Brown Girl in the Rain.’ It’s nostalgic and fun, just like the kind of stories I want to tell.”
Championing Fresh Talent
Samantha credits her breakthrough to director Gautham Vasudev Menon, who launched her career in Ye Maaya Chesave. “He could’ve picked any established actress, but he believed in me, a complete newcomer. That act of faith is something I now want to pass on,” she said.
For Subham, she cast emerging talents like Shreya, Shravani, and Shalini. “Their passion reminded me of my early days in the industry.”
A Newfound Respect for Producers
“As an actor, I never fully grasped how tough producing is. Now I understand. A single delayed scene can mean significant losses — in money, time, and energy,” she admitted. “Every minute counts. That perspective has completely changed my appreciation for producers.”
Although she hadn’t planned to appear in Subham, Samantha ended up doing a cameo. “I didn’t want to ask anyone else for a favour on my first production. So I stepped in.”
Thoughtful, Budget-Conscious Filmmaking
“We were mindful about every rupee spent. We didn’t overspend or cut corners — we matched the budget to the story’s scale,” she said. The film features music by Clinton Cerejo, known for nostalgic melodies, and a compelling background score by Vivek Sagar.
On Her Current Projects & Vision
Samantha also revealed that she’s currently working on a film titled Maa Inti Bangaram, which resumes shooting in June. She hinted at a potential future collaboration with director Atlee, calling him “someone I share a great rapport with.”
A Satirical Take with a Social Lens
Written by Vasanth, Subham is not your usual horror or comedy, Samantha clarified. “It’s more of a social satire, with layers that audiences will interpret in their own way. It reflects on how deeply many women connect with television serials.”
Following Her Instincts
“I’ve never made decisions with a business mindset,” she said. “I follow my heart. I may not be the smartest in terms of business, but I make films that I believe in. And I strongly believe Subham will resonate with audiences.”
On Unexpected Fame
When asked about a fan reportedly building a temple in her name, Samantha was humbled yet cautious. “It was overwhelming, and I appreciate the love — but I don’t support things like that. I’m just an artist, and such extreme gestures aren’t something I encourage.”
A Perfect Summer Release
“Subham couldn’t have asked for a better date — May 9 falls right in the middle of summer holidays. It’s a film meant for families to enjoy together. I sincerely hope people watch it in theatres and shower it with the same love they’ve always given me.”
