Celebrities are produced overnight. If you find this an exaggeration, take a look at the profile of Priya Prakash Varrier, the debutante actor who witnessed a spike of followers on Facebook and Instagram within just 24 hours. Priya, the lead actress of Omar Lulu's upcoming movie Oru Adaar Love, became a sensation on internet after the very first song sequence of the movie was released online; a boy and a girl communicate playfully through facial expressions. The young actress speaks about her dreams, passion, and hopes.
How is it being the third most sought-after celebrity on Indian social media?
I feel overwhelmed. I don't know how to express my excitement. There was an event organised at my college to celebrate the success of our song. All these are new experiences for me. I wish this support stays with me forever.
About family, academics and college
I am a first year B.Com student at Vimala college, Thrissur. I hail from a middle-class family at Poonkunnam, Thrissur. My father, Prakash, works with the central excise. My mother Preetha is a homemaker. I have a younger brother, Prasiddh. We stay with our grandparents.
Response from your friends and teachers on your performance
All my friends are so delighted to watch me on screen. Teachers have been so supportive all through the shooting. I have become a small celebrity in our college. People started recognising me. I already had a follower base on Facebook and Instagram. The response has rendered me absolutely speechless!
Your family's response
All of them watched the video and are so happy to finally see me on screen. Acting has been a childhood dream. I have never thought about pursuing any other career. My grandparents felt proud after watching my performance. Though I had a good time acting it out, I never imagined that it would come out so well.
The character in Oru Adaar Love
My character in the movie is of a smart college student. I can relate to the character. My co-actor Roshan is already a popular figure. He became famous through Mazhavil Manorama's D4 Dance. I was nervous in the initial phase but director Omar was very supportive and patient. He gave us enough time to rehearse and perform each sequence. Oru Adaar Love is an interesting campus love story between two young students. I feel lucky to be a part of it.
Have you winked in a similar manner in your real campus life?
Unfortunately no. I study in a women's college and I really miss a mixed education environment here. But I think I lived a cheerful campus life through this movie.
Previous experiences, hobbies
I have acted in three short films, all shot within a year. 2017 has been a wonderful year for me. I am also into modelling and have participated in beauty pageants. I am a dancer. I love performing Mohiniyattam. I also learn classical music. I used to post my pictures and videos on Instagram and Facebook. When I got call from Omar to confirm my lead character, it was like a dream come true. Though I have bagged prizes in school youth festivals, I never thought I would debut as a lead character in a movie.
Career goals and ambitions
My sole ambition is to become a film actress. I would welcome such interesting roles while keeping a strong track of academics. I am eagerly awaiting the release of Oru Adaar Love.
- via Onmanorama
