She’s endeared to audiences with her riveting portrayal as Mother Teresa’s first disciple in Hollywood biopic The Letters — and now the gorgeous Priya Darshini wants to come back to her roots. Based in New York where she focuses on her music and acting careers, the Tamilian, who is also an ultra-marathoner and co-founder of the adventure racing company WindChasers, is in India currently — to make a mark both off and on-screen!
“Through WindChasers, we have been organising endurance races in the Himalayas since 2011 — now, we are introducing our ultra-marathon in the Nilgiris! It’s just a day-long initiative, where participants have the options to choose from 26km, 52km or 70km. But we are focusing on more than just the runners. One of our primary motives has been to support the economy and lifestyles of the local communities, tribes and villages with the help of our races.20 members of the Irula tribe who inhabit the Nilgiri mountains in the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala will be running the WindChasers’ Nilgiris Ultra! Hearing-impaired children from the nearby schools will be a part of this!” smiles a clearly-excited Priya.
Priya leads the group by example, with her prowess in running, swimming and cycling — no wonder her fitness levels would rival any Kollywood A-lister! And considering she’s in India for a bit, the independent singer-songwriter is looking forward to collaborate with musicians and filmmakers in the country — “I sing and speak in 10 to 12 languages — so that’s never been a barrier for me. Indian cinema is poised at a pivotal stage currently, where women in films are offered roles which matter — and can cause social change. I come from a family background of NGOs and social activism, so it’s brilliant that I get to use art as a powerful medium to impact society. Since The Letters released to positive feedback, I am focusing on my acting career more.”
However, music remains her prerogative — and Priya is juggling a host of collaborations back in the U.S, apart from her work with Judeo Arabic retro-folk band, The Epichorus. “There is also some exciting projects happening, by which I’m trying to push the boundaries of classical music with other artistes. 2016 is going to be a massive year for me, and I’d love to explore opportunities in Chennai if they come calling!” she concludes.
