I feel overwhelmed to be part of Kannada's first original web series; Ayyana Mane is deeply rooted in Karnataka’s culture: Kushee Ravi

Actress Kushee Ravi is all smiles as she talks about her latest project Ayyana Mane, the first-ever Kannada original web series on Zee5. In an exclusive chat with ETimes, she opens up about her experience working on this groundbreaking series, her role, and much more.....
“I’m honestly feeling overwhelmed,” she begins with a chuckle. “It’s the first Kannada web series and I’m part of it! I feel like all the experiments are made on me,” she jokes. “Even Dia was an experimental film where the heroine didn’t have a conventional, glamorous look. The director wanted us to take that risk, and it worked. I’m hoping Ayyana Mane clicks the same way Dia did in my career.”
Kushee plays the role of Jaji in the series, a character she describes as “naive and innocent.” Set in the 1990s, the story revolves around Jaji, who gets married right after completing her second PUC. “She’s a loving wife with a deep respect for tradition. On the first day of her marriage, something happens at her husband’s house that sparks her curiosity. That’s where the real story, and the danger, begins.”

Talking about her preparation, Kushee says she didn’t do much in terms of method acting, but fully immersed herself in the character. “I enjoyed every bit of playing Jaji. Throughout the series, I’m seen in a saree, which I love draping. I’m comfortable in it.”
To get into the skin of the character, Kushee watched a few 90s films to understand the nuances of how actresses portrayed such roles back then. “And Ramesh Indira sir, what a brilliant director and actor! He was my best guide on set. Everything depends on the captain of the ship, and he taught me to pay attention to even the smallest details.”
When asked about the aesthetics of the show, Kushee beams. “I loved every costume I wore, especially the colour palette. The makeover was beautiful, the bindi, the middle-parted hair, the flower, everything brought out Jaji’s essence perfectly.”
The story is based in Chikkamagaluru, and Kushee hints at an intriguing cultural element in the show. “There’s a scene that touches upon Bhoota Aradhane (spirit worship), which I think the viewers will find very interesting.”

Shooting for Ayyana Mane turned out to be a significant learning curve for the actress. “I walked into the sets like a child and came out as a young woman,” she reflects. “The moment I heard the narration, I agreed instantly. I had always wanted to work under Ramesh Indira sir, and I’m grateful for this opportunity.”
What makes this project even more special for Kushee is how deeply rooted it is in Karnataka’s culture. “It’s a series every family can watch together and relate to. I’m proud to be part of Kannada’s first original web series.”

Reflecting on her journey, Kushee shares how her career found new life after motherhood. “I feel incredibly blessed to have gotten a break in my acting career after getting married and having a baby. Not everyone gets that kind of chance. I’ll always be thankful to Ashok sir for Dia. People still call me Dia, and I believe I’m living proof that talent never dies.”
Kushee attributes her recent successes to her biggest cheerleader, her daughter. “She’s been my lucky charm. I got my big break after she was born. My family has been extremely supportive, looking after me when I’m away on shoots. And when I’m home, I give her all my time. She’s very attached to me.”
With Ayyana Mane, Kushee Ravi sets a new benchmark in the Kannada digital entertainment space.