Telugu crime thriller 'Mangalavaaram', streaming on Disney+Hotstar, is winning wide acclaim after its OTT release. The film explores nymphomania, compulsive sexual behaviour in women, a new subject in Indian cinema. Actor Divya Pillai, who plays a prominent role in the film, shared with Onmanorama her shooting experience and how she readily agreed to do the film with a unique plot.
Your busy South Indian schedule...
My last Malayalam film was Garudan. And this is my third Telugu movie after my debut in 'Thaggadele'. The director of 'Mangalavaaram', Ajai Bhupathi, approached me after seeing my performance in the Malayalam film 'Kala'.
Positive response to 'Mangalavaaram' and your role...
The response to my recent movies has been surprising. Even 'Garudan,' in which I played Biju Menon's wife, received considerable appreciation, despite having no more than two dialogues in the film. In 'Mangalavaaram', my character springs a few surprises, which is why people have been very receptive to it. In the film, I play Rajeshwari Devi, the wife of the ruthless zamindar Prakasham Babu. Ajai felt I was apt to do the role and said that my look would contribute a lot to my character.
What drew you to the movie?
Definitely the subject and the vision of the director. I felt that Ajai was dealing with a very socially relevant subject. The film aimed to expose people's true colours, especially those who try to brand others in a bad light. I liked how Ajai presented my character.
About nymphomania, the subject of the film...
It is not a theme that has been discussed a lot in Indian cinema. The director has to be applauded for bringing this to the mainstream. I believe any mental disorder needs to be addressed seriously. Unfortunately, such issues are still subject to a lot of taboo and ridicule, though there is some change now since celebrities, especially from Bollywood, are opening up about their mental struggles.
The film is also quite intense!
It is. I remember Ajai had to approach several female actors for the role before zeroing in on Payal Rajput since the movie deals with nymphomania. The making of the film was also exceptional, which connected with the audience well. Out of respect for my mother, I was particular that I would not do a lot of intimate scenes in the movie. I have done intimate scenes in the past, including in films like 'Simon Daniel'. But now I want to be in movies that even my parents can watch. I make my terms clear to the director. Ajai was very understanding that way. My character was initially required to do a lip-lock scene, but I politely declined.
Doing negative roles
I like doing films of all genres. I have done bubbly characters in the past. I have also played negative roles to my satisfaction. I am looking forward to doing comedy in Malayalam films. Playing a villain is intriguing, especially if it comes with an element of surprise.
You had a good cameo in 'Masterpeace'
(Laughs) The directors told me my character would be the most normal in the lot. I told them that I would have loved to do an over-the-top role too, but yeah, my character was written that way. I would love to be a part of diverse movies in the future.
