"I would love to write a story and direct it when the time is right. I already have some ideas in mind."
Q. You’ve been making a mark in the Malayalam film industry. How would you describe your journey so far?
My journey in the film industry has been anything but easy, despite an unexpected start. Four years ago, I had no plans of pursuing acting. When opportunities came my way, I hardly paid attention to them. However, at some point, I felt the urge to give it a try. I auditioned, got selected, and that marked the beginning of my career as an actor.
As I stepped into the industry, I started observing and learning, realizing how versatile and dynamic this profession truly is. Over time, acting became my passion. However, as a beginner, the struggle is real,have to admit.
Q. Your film Pavi Care Taker was released in 2024. What drew you to this project, and what was the most challenging part of playing your role?
As I mentioned, I was cast in this movie through a proper audition. It was a romantic comedy with a well-written love story. The lead actor was Dileep, and as we all know, he is an incredibly versatile performer. Being part of this film was truly a great opportunity for me.
I played the role of Janaki, a character who closely resembles my own personality. Because of that, I didn’t find many challenges in portraying her—it felt natural.
Q. Malayalam cinema is known for its strong storytelling and nuanced performances. As an actor, how do you choose scripts that align with your artistic vision?
As an artist, choosing a script that aligns with my artistic vision involves a mix of intuition, passion, and careful evaluation. I look for stories that resonate with me on a deeper level—something that challenges me, excites me, or allows me to explore different shades of a character.
Iconsider the depth of the role, the emotional journey it offers, and whether it pushes me to grow as an actor. The storytelling, screenplay, and the team behind the project also play a crucial role in my decision. At the end of the day, I want to be part of stories that leave an impact, whether through strong emotions, meaningful messages, or simply by entertaining the audience in a unique way.
Q. Who are some of the actors or filmmakers that have inspired your work, and why?
In terms of actors, I admire Mammooty Sir for their ability to completely transform into any character they play. Their versatility and dedication to the craft push me to explore my own range as an artist. Another major inspiration is Urvashi mam whose effortless screen presence and emotional depth make every performance unforgettable.
When it comes to filmmakers, I look up to Maniratnam Sir for their unique storytelling and ability to create compelling narratives. Their attention to detail and the way they bring characters to life on screen is something I deeply admire.
Q. With the rise of OTT platforms, regional cinema is gaining more visibility. Do you think this shift has changed opportunities for actors like yourself?
Absolutely! The rise of OTT platforms has been a game-changer for regional cinema, bringing diverse stories and talents to a global audience. Earlier, regional films had limited reach, often confined to specific states or language-speaking communities. But now, with streaming platforms, these films are getting the visibility they deserve, breaking language barriers with subtitles and dubbing.
For actors like me, this shift has opened up incredible opportunities. We are no longer restricted to mainstream theatrical releases; instead, we have the chance to explore unique, content-driven roles that might not have been commercially viable before. It also allows us to collaborate with filmmakers and actors from different industries, broadening our horizons.
Moreover, the demand for fresh, authentic performances has increased, giving new and emerging actors a platform to showcase their talent. It’s an exciting time to be in the industry, as storytelling is evolving, and there’s space for everyone who brings something unique to the table.
Q. Beyond acting, do you have any creative aspirations—perhaps directing, writing, or producing?
I would love to write a story and direct it when the time is right. I already have some ideas in mind.
Q. What’s something unexpected about you that your fans might not know?
There’s probably a lot that my fans don’t know about me! But something unexpected might be iam a singer too.
It’s always fun to let people see different sides of me beyond what they see on screen!
BIO
Shreya Rukmini is an Indian actress, model, former radio jockey, and physicist. I have completed my master’s in Physics from VIT, Vellore, and worked as a lecturer in Bangalore. However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, a major career shift took place.
Although I had been building a career in the field of science, my true passion always lay in the media industry. So when I received an opportunity to work as an RJ at Red FM, I didn’t have to think twice. While working as an RJ, I was offered a film role, which marked the beginning of my acting journey.
My debut film was Pavi Caretaker, and my second movie, Abhyandara Kuttavali, starring Asif Ali, is set to release on April 3rd. Alongside my work in films, I also plan to pursue a PhD.
Interviewed By Shivam Sharma
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