Kamal sir found me again: Abhirami

Actress Abhirami, who made a comeback after almost a decade with the Jyothika-starrer 36 Vayadhinile.

What made you choose 36 Vayadhinile?
I bagged the role because of three reasons — the story, character and the director. The script of 36 Vayathinile is its hero. When I saw the Malayalam version, I was impressed by the story and the way it was realised into film. Rosshan Andrews is of the best directors in the industry and a brilliant storyteller. My character ‘Susan’ resonated with me quite a bit because what she did is exactly what I would do, if one of my friends was undergoing similar struggles.

Your last film was Virumandi with Kamal Haasan in Tamil.
It was awesome! My adoration for Kamal sir is no secret! It was truly a dream come true to work with him. What was even more thrilling was the fact that he pursued me to dub for his upcoming directorial venture Vishwaroopam 2  and in Uttama Villain too. I was ‘hiding’ in the US, and he searched me out to work for him again. I moved to the US in 2004 to study. I completed my degree in Psychology and worked as the marketing head of a company. I shuttle between the US and India depending on my work load.

You have done Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada and Telugu films. What difference do you see in these three industries?
My perspective on Kannada and Telugu movies is frankly outdated so I’d rather not comment on them. Malayalam and Tamil come naturally to me. Malayalam used to be closer to reality and Tamil a little exaggerated in its storytelling style, but now that divide is almost non-existent.

You are married and you’re still acting in films. Has cinema started looking more at talent than marital status?
Being married is still viewed as a handicap. People automatically assume you’re older than you are, and want to cast you in more senior roles, or as characters rather than leading ladies. I feel that marriage and entering 30s give women a lot of depth in personality. This is something that should be capitalised on by filmmakers.

Your dream role?
I would love to work in an animal-themed film, a super hero in a good sci-fi movie and a complex character with shades of grey.

Any Tamil films on the cards?
Yes, but it’s too early to talk about them.

Are you planning to shift your base to India?
It’s a thought that often crosses my mind these days. Possibly!

Future plans...
I see films as a medium that can enrich culture and society. I want to keep entertaining people and portray interesting characters. I’m currently working on a travel/game/reality show called Made for Each Other on a Malayalam channel which has opened to good response.
 

How come you aren’t working with younger Tamil heroes?
This question should be asked of the people who are responsible for casting me. In fact, here’s a shout-out to all the directors and younger actors for casting me opposite younger co-stars. Let’s do it, I’m game.