- What inspired you to pursue an acting career in the comedy genre?
It wasn’t planned, and I didn’t aspire to become an actor, especially in the genre of comedy; basically, it just happened. I got an anchoring opportunity when I was in college, and I was just doing that. Then ‘Marmadesam’ happened, after which I received a lot of good offers. Slowly, it grew on me, and I started liking the profession, so I took it up full-time. I was very scared to do comedy, and my first comedy project was ‘Ramany vs Ramany’ by Naga sir, which became very famous during the pandemic. Children are very difficult to please because they are very choosy, so when I go out and kids say they know me, it makes me feel good. Even though the project is 24 years old, it resonates with children these days. Initially, I was reluctant, but the director encouraged me to take up the role. When it comes to comedy, you need to rehearse to get the hang of the timing. Well, you never know which scene will tickle the funny bone of the audience. I just trusted him, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable projects in my career. - Can you share an instance where you were influenced or inspired by a prominent figure, whether it is a fellow actor, director, or someone outside of the entertainment industry, in shaping your comedic style or approach to your craft?
Of course, everyone’s favourite is Manorama Aachi; she was not just a comedian but an all-rounder. When she is on screen, you pause to watch her because she had that persona. She experimented with so many genres in films. My favourite comedian is Kamal sir, and I was influenced by ‘Michael Madana Kamarajan,’ where he plays four roles, and we can differentiate between them. I must have watched it more than a hundred times, and even my daughter watches it. It appeals to so many generations, and he is my inspiration. Kamal sir is a serious actor, but when it comes to comedy, I love his timing and how he gets into the character. Someday very soon, I wish to do a small comedy role with Kamal sir. - Which of your comedic characters do you feel most connected to, and why?
I guess the character Ramany is close to my heart because I learned so much through that project, right from timing, body language, matching with the live audio; we used to do the full scene in one shot, like a perfect learning space for me. During my school and college years, I was a serious person, so the character Ramany kind of shook me up, and I needed that project to see the lighter side of me. In that way, it was very special to me. But ‘Kanchana’ gave me a career break; it was slapstick and over-the-top kind of comedy. Sharing screen space with Sarala ma was such a delight. Off-screen, Sarala ma is completely different; she is very intellectual, and conversations with her are very deep. Being a senior person, I never expected she would be so comfortable and supportive towards me. - Can you share any memorable behind-the-scenes moments from your comedy films or shows?
I’m not a prankster, but my husband Chetan is. After the release of the movie ‘Viduthalai,’ everybody sees him as a villain, but off-screen, he maintains a very innocent face while doing all mischievous things. If Chetan is on set, he’ll be cracking jokes, an entertaining person, and his jokes are harmless. I like cheerful people like him. I still remember how Chetan pranked an innocent young girl during the shoot of the ‘Marmadesam’ serial at the railway station. - What do you think sets comedy apart as a genre in Tamil cinema?
Comedy is a favourite genre for all of us. After a hard day’s work, everybody wants to unwind and relax by watching a comedy film. There is always a market for comedy, just like soft romance. In Tamil cinema, there used to be only comedy tracks in between, but for the past 14 years, we have started seeing full-fledged comedy or lighter movies. Comedy is therapeutic; it lightens your mind and body, and you can sleep well after watching a comedy scene. We have dark humour, situational comedy, over-the-top humour, and we are experimental with all types of comedy, so I think it’s healthy. If I watch a movie like ‘Chithha,’ I can’t sleep; it will be disturbing. It’s an amazing film, but I have to unwind myself. Comedy scenes or films help me a lot; there’s no need for meditation or anything. In that way, comedians play a huge part in mental health. - What challenges do you face as a female comedian in the entertainment industry?
I wish scripts included more depth for women. Often, they’re side-lined, and it’s a challenge to find meaningful roles. Some writers excel, but others overlook the importance of female characters. There’s also a double standard in dialogue; what’s acceptable for men can be deemed inappropriate for women. This imbalance needs to change, with writers taking responsibility for more inclusive and respectful portrayals. - Off-screen, what kind of person are you?
Off-screen, I am someone who is constantly evolving. During my school and college days, I was a studious, reserved, and shy person, always seeking to please others. However, over time, I have recognised these patterns and am actively learning and unlearning many things. My career has played a significant role in opening me up both mentally and physically, helping me builds my self-esteem. Additionally, I am currently undergoing training as a psychotherapist. - What are you future projects?
I am eagerly awaiting the release of ‘Raguthatha,’ as well as an untitled movie with director C. Prem Kumar, known for the film ‘96.’ Additionally, I am excited to portray a motherly role in ‘Thalavettiyan Palayam’ alongside Hiphop Tamizha Aadhi, and in ‘Lubber Pandhu.’
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Favourite comedy film of all time?
Michael Madana Kama Rajan.
One word to describe your on-set persona?
On focus.
Who do you like off-screen?
Actor Soori is really cute.
What’s your favourite food?
Biryani.
What’s your favourite colour?
Black.
What comedy means to you?
Therapeutic.