Known for her compelling portrayal of characters that resonate with audiences, from her breakthrough roles in television dramas like ‘Bharathi Kannamma’ and ’Pandian Stores’, Kaavya Arivumani’s ascent has been nothing short of remarkable. With each role, she not only captured hearts but also honed her craft, readying herself for the silver screen. Fueled by passion, dedication, and an unyielding spirit, Kaavya Arivumani shares her story of humble beginnings in school to becoming a celebrated name among her fans. With a heart brimming with zeal for acting, she recounts the exhilarating twists and turns that shaped her career, from her early days in short films to her breakthrough roles in television and cinema.
In this exclusive feature, Provoke Lifestyle Magazine delves into the journey of Kaavya, a humble star whose star shines brighter with each role, illuminating screens and hearts alike. Discover the motivations, challenges, and triumphs that have redefined her remarkable journey, offering valuable insights into the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.

Can you share your journey in the industry, from your initial steps to where you have reached?
My journey started with short films. Back in school, I was always buzzing with excitement whenever there was a chance to showcase my talent through mono-acting and stage dramas. Regardless of their small scale, these competitions fueled my passion for acting. Balancing my studious nature with a deep love for extracurricular activities, acting became my true calling. From school theatrics to college short films, my journey took an exciting turn when a younger acquaintance roped me into a short film project. The opportunities that followed after that experience paved the way for me to expand my horizons further by venturing into YouTube. And that’s how my exhilarating journey kick-started, all thanks to those early days in the world of short films!

What motivated you to pursue a career in acting, and were there any challenges you faced during your early days in the field?
When the opportunity to work at Vijay Television came knocking at my door, I couldn’t help but reflect on the missed chances before. There were a couple of opportunities to act in serials that I had let slip through my fingers due to the overwhelming uncertainty that plagued my mind. However, when Vijay TV offered me a role in the Bharathi Kannama Serial, I knew deep down that it was an incredible opportunity not to be missed. After all, the chance to work under the guidance of the legendary director Praveen Bennet was too good to pass up. And so, with Bharathi Kannama, my journey in television began.

My acting career wasn’t a smooth ride, to say the least. Like every field, numerous challenges were looming ahead. In those initial stages, I had to put in intense hard work and dedication. I would often bunk college to attend short film and ad shoots, striving to make my mark in the industry. I faced it all alone, walking the path of a one-woman army. I didn’t have much external support, except for my family, who stood by me mentally, urging me to stay strong and follow my passion. It was up to me to navigate the difficulties that came my way. Every step of the journey taught me valuable lessons. I learned how to adapt and grow, entirely by myself. I discovered how to present myself, how to communicate with people, and most importantly, how to project myself in front of the camera. These skills were developed gradually, as I dove headfirst into the world of short films, learning through countless experiences and self-reflection.

Tell us about your experience portraying Mullai in the popular soap opera Pandian Stores. How did this role impact your career?
Coming to Mullai, my role in Pandiyan Stores was a pivotal moment in my career. It marked a turning point as I transitioned from smaller roles to taking on lead roles, both in television and on YouTube. Mullai taught me valuable lessons and working on Pandiyan Stores alongside a talented team of actors was a tremendous learning experience.

Making your debut in the film Miral in 2022 must have been an exciting milestone. Can you share some insights into your experience working on your first film project?
My debut film Miral came at a time when I was still doing the serial. It was a sudden opportunity that I didn’t anticipate, but I embraced it wholeheartedly. Despite being the second lead character, I saw it as a chance to learn and grow. Even though my role wasn’t extensive, the ten-day shoot taught me invaluable lessons and provided me with a solid foundation in cinema. I realized the importance of seizing opportunities, especially in the film industry, and I was determined to make the most of every chance that came my way.

In 2019, you began your career with Bharathi Kannamma. How did this opportunity come your way, and what lessons did you learn during that initial phase?
In 2019, my television career kicked off with Bharathi Kannamma. At the time, I wasn’t particularly aiming for a serial drama role, but circumstances led me to embrace it as a means of supporting myself and my family. Handling everything independently, from buying clothes to managing household responsibilities, pushed me to stand on my own feet. When the opportunity arose through director Praveen Bennet, I seized it, attending his audition based on my short film work. Despite initially viewing it as a survival move, my time on the series taught me valuable lessons and expanded my skills.

Taking on the role in Bharathi Kannamma, and later replacing Mullai in Pandian Stores, involved significant transitions. How did you approach these changes, and what did you learn from these experiences?
In Bharathi Kannamma, I initially played a supportive comedy role. However, stepping into the shoes of Mullai was a significant shift for me. It marked a complete transformation into a character akin to a quintessential Tamil girl-next-door, often described as resembling a neighbour girl with minimal makeup. Embracing these changes proved beneficial for me. I revamped my look and hairstyle to embody the Mullai character, which continues to resonate with many women even today. Whenever I meet people, they fondly recall the impact of the Mullai character and commend its portrayal.

Can you tell about your latest fim Ripubury (2023)?
Ripubury was another unexpected turn in my journey. While I was engrossed in television series, I harboured a desire to transition into cinema, viewing it as a crucial milestone. The opportunity to play a small character in Ripubury came unexpectedly, but I am grateful for the support and love shown by my fans in every endeavor I undertake. Their unwavering encouragement fuels my determination to pursue my dreams.

Beyond acting, do you have other creative interests or passions that you would like to explore in the future?
In addition to acting, I am also an architect, having completed my degree in architecture. My journey into the world of entertainment began while I was still a student, balancing acting roles in series alongside my studies. During my college years, I was into short films, and later, I got significant roles in television series like Bharathi Kannamma and Pandian Stores. Architecture has always been a passion of mine, serving as another lens through which I view the world. Beyond architecture, I find joy in painting and indulging in various forms of artwork, which further enrich my creative endeavors.

Can you share some memorable moments or anecdotes from your journey in the entertainment industry that have left a lasting impact on you?
One thing that holds great significance for me is the value of patience and sincerity in our work. I firmly believe that if we approach our tasks with dedication and honesty, while also maintaining a sense of calm and contentment, success will naturally follow in due time. This principle holds true not only in the entertainment industry but in all fields of work. I am grateful for the opportunities that come my way based on my past efforts, and I have confidence in the quality of my work. Additionally, I aspire to support and provide opportunities for new talents, as I myself once received such opportunities in my journey.

What motivates you during challenging times in your career, especially considering your journey?
My motivation stems from within, driven by a constant sense of self-motivation. While external inspirations certainly play a role, I am fueled by an inner fire that keeps me constantly active and driven. I am inherently driven by a desire to keep moving forward and making progress.

Could you tell us who forms the core of your support system, guiding and inspiring you in navigating the challenges and triumphs of your journey in the entertainment industry?
I am solely responsible for driving myself forward and pushing my limits to achieve my goals. I make all decisions independently and manage everything on my own. I am a self-sufficient force, handling everything from the early days of my career in short films to the present. I’ve always been my support system, navigating every aspect of my journey with self-reliance and determination.