Divya S Iyer: From files to films

For Dr Divya S. Iyer, art is not a new realm. She has performed on stage before. Hence, it wasn’t so difficult for her to emote in front of the camera, when she made her debut with Eliyammachiyude Adyathe Christmas directed by Benny Ashamsa. “It was exciting,” says Divya. “When we watch a movie, we don’t realise how much work goes into it.”  In fact, the Thiruvananthapuram sub-collector found dubbing more difficult. “You are surrounded by the crew while acting. The energy is there. When you dub, you are isolated in a room, your face comes on screen and you give voice for that. That was much more difficult for me,” she smiles. 

Divya with K P A C Lalitha on the sets

In the movie, Divya plays the role of a nun who runs an old age home. “The movie takes us through various stages old people go through. It tells the story of Eliyammachi, played by (KPAC) Lalitha chechi, and her experiences. It is an emotional tale,” explains Divya, who is also the presiding officer of the Senior Citizen Tribunal. Actually, she agreed to act in this movie as it deals with the life of senior citizens. “I keep listening to stories like this in real life. So, I thought it would be good if I could be part of a creative expression that spreads this thought. The reach and impact of movie would be different.” Divya hasn’t taken any remuneration for it. 

The shooting of the movie was held at an orphanage in Cherthala. “That was a great learning experience — interacting with them and getting to know about their lives. On the location, it was a wonderful experience working Lalitha chechi and Madhu sir. Being with them and exchanging ideas, it was more like a family,” recalls Divya.  Playing the nun’s role has been a calming experience for Divya. The shooting days brought back her childhood memories. “I studied in Holy Angels Convent School. So, right from my childhood I have seen their mannerisms. Several of my teachers flashed in my mind every time I did the scenes,” says Divya, who had a great time on the sets. The local people mistook her for a real nun. “They would come and greet me. Sometimes, I would pretend to be one. When I left the place, the sisters who run the home were saying that the people miss the nun who always keeps a smile on her face,” she laughs.

The movie will hit theatres on December 1. “If one child decides to take care of her/his parents after watching this movie, I will be happy. It is our right to take care of our parents.” Will she act again? “I will, if the movie complements my profession and conveys a message to society. Creativity shouldn’t be restricted solely to enjoyment. It should be used for social change too. We have the legacy of having art forms like Ottanthullal, invented to convey ideas,” she signs off.