With her sparkling eyes and charming smile, Priya Bhavani Shankar is the quintessential South Indian beauty who has won hearts with her grace and talent. Starting her journey as a television presenter, she quickly made a mark in serials before taking the Tamil film industry by storm with her debut in Meyaadha Maan. Since then, Priya has worked alongside some of Kollywood’s biggest stars, from Karthi to Kamal Haasan, and has continued to rise in popularity. Whether it was her charming cameo in Thiruchitrambalam as a village belle or her recent bold role in Demonte Colony 2, Priya is proving she’s here to stay. As she gears up for her next film Black, we catch up with the actress to talk about her journey, working on back-to-back thrillers, and what lies ahead.

How has the journey been from anchoring to becoming an established actor?
It’s been interesting and totally unexpected! It wasn’t planned, but I’m enjoying and cherishing everything that comes my way—the ups and downs. I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Tell us how you feel about doing back-to-back thriller films.
I wouldn’t call Black a horror film; it’s more of a fiction thriller. But yes, you could say I’m doing thrillers back-to-back. Demonte Colony 2 was filmed 1.5 years ago, and I started shooting for Black right after finishing Demonte Colony 2. Jiiva I are in Black, and we shot for 35 consecutive nights in Chennai—both films required night shoots.

How is it to work on back-to-back night shoots?
I actually like it! I was happy not seeing the sun for a while. I personally enjoy night shoots, but yes, wrapping up at 6 AM can be hectic—it takes effort to maintain energy levels. People think working in films is glamorous, but it’s far from easy. When I was in television, people would say, “Oh, actresses just relax, eat clean food, work out, and go home whenever they want.” Well, I’m still waiting for that day! We work really hard, especially during night shoots, which come with both advantages and disadvantages. Continuous night shoots take a toll on your body, but I love being busy, so I don’t complain. Actors are well taken care of on set, but a film is a team effort—there are so many people who work hard and don’t get the recognition they deserve. I feel blessed.

Tell us more about working with Jiiva in Black.
Black is my second film with Jiiva and Sam CS. Jiiva is the kind of person no one can dislike — he’s harmless, sweet, and incredibly kind. The atmosphere is always relaxed around him. I was very happy shooting with him. If it had been someone else, the shoot might have been frustrating, but with Jiiva, it was fun. Since it’s a science-fiction film, things can get confusing, but his presence made it enjoyable. I love Sam’s work in all his albums, and in this movie, I have two beautiful songs.

What’s your take on the Hema Committee?
I don’t talk much about it because I feel the digital media has blown things out of proportion, and the intention gets lost. It’s important to support each other, whether it’s a man or a woman. We need to stand by the victim and ensure their voice is heard. Harassment happens everywhere, not just in the film industry. I’m glad that people are starting to stand up for each other and speak out.

How do you deal with mean comments on social media?
Why should we explain our choices? What if Demonte Colony 2 had released a year later? I don’t know. You just need to be happy with what you do, regardless of the outcome. I enjoy the process and love working here. It’s nice when your work gets recognized; it brings peace and happiness. Every film involves the same amount of hard work and trust, and you hope it will succeed. But if things go the other way, it’s out of your control.

Tell us something interesting about Black.
There’s no other cast in the movie — just Jiiva and me. We had to convey everything the film wanted through our expressions and performances. That was challenging but exciting. I just hope the audience doesn’t get bored of us!

Can you share details about your upcoming projects?
After Black, I have a Telugu release, Zebra, coming out, and I’m starting work on three new projects. In Tamil, I have a couple of projects that may release next year.

What’s your advice to aspiring actors?
Don’t let others set your limits. Everyone has an opinion, but give your 100%, and even if it doesn’t happen today, the universe will make it happen one day.

Rapid Fire
Tea or Coffee:
Coffee (3-4 times a day)

Holiday Destination:
Africa

Dream Role:
A negative role

Books you’re reading right now:
How Stella Saved The Farm

Go-to Comfort Food:
Thai basil fried rice

Men’s Fashion Trend You Can’t Stand:
Low-waist jeans

One Thing You Can’t Do Without:
My father.