Anika Sindhya steps in as Neelu in Lakshmi Nivasa; says, “Playing a negative role after six years feels exciting, it lets me explore a different side of performance again

Kannada television actress Anika Sindhya has stepped into the role of Neelu in the popular daily soap Lakshmi Nivasa, replacing actress Manasa Manohar, who recently exited the show due to her pregnancy. Speaking to ETimes about the sudden development, Anika said the opportunity came as a surprise. “It all happened very suddenly. I was called in, and before I knew it, I had already shot for the first episode. Soon after that, I received the confirmation that I would be playing Neelu in Lakshmi Nivasa. It feels like a very nice start and I’m excited about this new phase,” she shared. Interestingly, the role marks Anika’s return to playing a negative character after a long gap. “I am playing a negative role after almost six years. The last time I portrayed a negative character was Kumudha in Lakshmi Baramma. After that, most of the characters I played were positive or soft-natured roles. So, stepping back into a negative shade is quite exciting for me as an actor. It gives me a chance to explore a different side of performance again,” she explained. The actress also acknowledged that the role was earlier portrayed by Manasa Manohar and said she hopes to live up to the audience’s expectations.

“Earlier, Manasa Manohar was playing Neelu, and now I have stepped in to take over the role. I believe it will be quite a journey to fill her shoes, as viewers are already familiar with her portrayal. I sincerely hope I can do justice to the character and perhaps bring my own touch to it,” Anika said. Extending her good wishes to Manasa, Anika added that although they haven’t met personally, she wishes the actress well during this special phase of her life. “I don’t know Manasa personally, but I would like to thank her for her work in the role and wish her a healthy pregnancy. I hope she has a smooth delivery and a wonderful time welcoming her baby,” she concluded. With Anika Sindhya stepping in as Neelu, it remains to be seen how the character evolves in the upcoming episodes of Lakshmi Nivasa.