Arya’s digital Swayamvar video draws ire

While the actor initially insisted that he was really looking out for a life partner, the video turned out to be a promo for a reality show that will have women competing against each other to prove their compatibility with him. The actor’s friends also appeared to be in the dark about his foray into television.

Social media on Tuesday was abuzz with a video of actor Arya in which he announces that he is looking for his soulmate. The video comes days after the actor said that he would be launching an app to find himself a prospective bride. “Last week, there was a video of me at the gym, in which I said I am on the lookout for my life partner, which is true. Generally, people look for their better half through their friends, family, or through matrimonial sites. However, I chose to take this way. I don’t have any demands or conditions. This is not a joke or a prank. Waiting for your call.” 

The number sends the caller a message and redirects to a site, mapillaiarya.com that has a registration form. While a certain section that largely included the film fraternity, wished the actor the very best, another called the attempt shallow. The backlash included several people on social media criticising the attempt. The actor, who seemed to revel in the positive feedback, later issued a clarification. “Yes, it isn’t a prank. I will be getting married.” We found out that Arya’s quest for love is a part of a promo of the Tamil version of The Bachelor, an American reality show in which in the hope of finding his true love and life partner, a bachelor dates a group of women over several weeks. 

His friends from the industry too believed that Arya was indeed planning to get married. Prasanna told us, “I spoke to him some time back and asked if he is sure about it. He told me it isn’t a prank and I went on to wish him good luck.” 

Arya’s best buddy, Vishnu Vishal, said, “A few days back when I spoke to Arya, he was telling me about his wedding plans. I don’t think it’s a prank. However, knowing him, it will be difficult for a girl to convince him. We will have to wait and watch.” 

But Jiiva didn’t quite fall prey to the prank. “Knowing Jammy, it’s definitely part of a promotion for his film or maybe show,” he said.