Just like the kind of films she likes, Manjima’s thoughts are not sugar coated. Her ideas on love are as real as it can get. In a fun chat with DC, the young actress spoke about love, her ideal partner and how despite all her practicality, she is a hopeless romantic at heart!
What Valentine’s Day means to me
Although I am a hopeless romantic at heart, Valentine’s Day is just like any other day to me. When I was in school or college, seeing my other friends go on V Day dates, I used to feel bad about being single! That is not the case anymore. Although, some good romantic films release sometimes, and I also love the ambience in restaurants and hangouts over the city. Overall, I think it’s a good show!
My ideal date
I’m not very fond of going out on dinner dates, I like staying home, watching a movie together or playing a game of Uno, maybe.
Movie recommendations
Alaipayuthey and Vinnaithaandi Varuvaaya, for not being formulaic love stories. They did not candy-coat the relationships, showed how complicated they can be, and how one should work hard on them to make them last.
Romance in films
I am not very comfortable doing romantic scenes at all! I always freeze up and go, “Oh God! What do I do now?” But I enjoyed doing AYM and the Thalli Pogathey song, because of the type of romance that was showcased in the film. It was not clichéd at all. There was genuine friendship between the lead characters.
If a fan could date me
Not just a fan, just as a person, he should come off as genuine. If anyone comes up to me saying they want to take me out on a date, I’d expect them to be honest. I’m a very talkative person, so I want my man to be the same, with a good sense of humour.
Weird proposals
Once I had someone message me on Twitter saying that he had a terminal illness and that his last wish was to meet me! I’m pretty sure he was making it up, but it also disturbed me. The only thing I could do was ignore him.
The most romantic thing I’ve done
Me, being a foodie, I got food delivered to a guy I used to date at one point. I got cupcakes and a lot of other goodies sent to his home, which is by far the most romantic thing I have done.
Parents, My inspiration
My parents had a love marriage too, and I grew up watching their relationship. There are times when they’ve had heated arguments, but at the end of the day, their love for each other showed. I think I look out for my dad’s qualities in other men too. He is someone who loves his profession a lot. About 10 to 12 years ago, he used to work all day, but he still made sure that he called each one of us before we went to sleep. That is the kind of care I expect from the person I end up with too.
Romantic clichés I can do without
Talking on the phone 24/7, giving updates every few minutes and also celebrating monthly anniversaries are way too mushy for me.
Tropes in films that must stop
Some clichés such as portraying stalking as a way of love must stop. But, honestly I don’t think It will change anytime soon. Audiences have been conditioned that way, to an extent that it is what they expect. But somewhere, things are definitely changing. Filmmakers like Mani Ratnam and Gautham Menon have shown love more aesthetically, and that appeals to all kinds of audiences.
Valentines day, this year
I’m home after a long time, so, I’m just looking to relax with mom’s special food. But yes, I’ll get to hear my friends’ stories on what they are upto. Also, many well-wishers have already started sending me hearts and emoticons in their messages. So, it’s gonna be fun!
