GOA: The In Conversational Workshop at IFFI turned the Kala Academy into a lively theatre of storytelling, technique, and nostalgia as icons Suhasini Maniratnam and Khushboo Sundar took the stage together for “The Luminary Icons: Creative Bonds and Fierce Performances.” The event offered a rare peek into two extraordinary journeys that have shaped Indian cinema with powerful characters and fearless performances.
Film producer Ravi Kottarakkara opened the session by felicitating the celebrated artists, and within minutes, the hall was buzzing with humour, anecdotes, and the effortless camaraderie of two performers who have shared decades of screens, stories, and evolution.
🎭 No Labels, Only Roles
The conversation began with Suhasini recalling how audiences once questioned her connection to Kamal Haasan — a moment she laughs at today, having carved her own distinct legacy as an actor and cinematographer.
When she asked Khushboo whether she prepares differently for arthouse and mainstream cinema, Khushboo responded with conviction:
“There is no difference for me. I go into every film like soft clay — ready to take shape with the director’s vision.”
She illustrated this trust through filmmaker Bharathi Raja, who designed a role around her real-life strengths as a swimmer and horse rider.
🎬 The Mystery of Success
Discussing box-office unpredictability, Khushboo reflected on her blockbuster Chinnathambi, contrasted with personal favourites like Captain Magal and Jathi Malli that didn’t find similar success.
Every actor hopes — but never fully knows.
✍️ Craft, Emotion & the Language of Performance
Suhasini emphasized the emotional truth actors bring to the screen:
“Every scene is significant — begin it like you’re beginning a new film.”
Khushboo shared a moment where a director asked her to wash off all makeup to preserve authenticity — a reminder that characters are shaped from vulnerability.
On technique, Suhasini offered a crucial tip to aspiring actors:
“Write down your dialogues in your native language and revisit them often.
Language is the first barrier you must overcome.”
The duo exchanged stories of language struggles in their early years — forgotten cues, retakes, and the nerves of performing alongside greats like Mammootty, Chiranjeevi, and Vishnuvardhan.
📌 A Live Masterclass
Suhasini broke down the mechanics of emotion — shock, subtle reactions, and the importance of hitting marks on set. A clip from Vanaprastham with Mohanlal showcased the power of silent expression.
Khushboo recalled her Tamil debut challenges, writing cues in Hindi to keep pace on set — a humorous yet relatable struggle for many budding actors.
🌟 Moments That Moved the Room
Two live performances left the audience cheering:
🎞️ Khushboo recreated a beloved emotional scene from Chinnathambi — finishing with real tears in her eyes.
💃 Suhasini performed a fragment from Kannaki, joined unexpectedly by choreographer Kala, turning the moment into a delightfully spontaneous stage celebration.
🎤 A Closing of Guidance & Gratitude
The session wrapped up with thoughtful questions from young performers — and answers steeped in lived wisdom. The audience didn’t just listen to stories; they witnessed the craft behind stardom, the discipline behind artistry, and the humility behind longevity.
Two women.
Two eras.
One timeless love for cinema.
This wasn’t just a workshop — it was cinema speaking through its finest.
