Despite my track record, Tamil cinema does not want me, says Priya Anand

Priya Anand talks to us in the middle of her shoot from Bengaluru. Her role of Richa in her debut digital venture A Simple Murder on SonyLiv has won critical acclaim. “I am excited and I am lost for words to describe my happiness on how the audience has accepted Richa,” she starts off.The series is a roller coaster of emotions but the actress didn’t have to venture out of her comfort zone. “I didn’t have to because the story was well-written by Prateek and director Sachin’s execution was top-notch. I have always chosen such neat writings above remuneration and the connect with the energy of the character becomes much easier. I’m fortunate that at this point in my career, I am doing roles I really want to be part of.” she adds.

On foraying into OTT, Priya says that she had second thoughts about the censorship part. “The non-censorship of OTT platform has led to more adult content. I ensured that I will never be a part of such 

series. This is the reason why I loved A Simple Murder. The director had a vision and he worked on it. Also with co-stars like Mohammed Zeeshan, who is known for his craftsmanship, acting becomes much easier” she tells us.

Having worked across industries and languages, the Varma actress tells us that she is a bit disappointed with south film industries. “With the OTT boom, the writing has become better and performers are being recognised. However, in the south that isn’t the case. Filmmakers focus more on star value than good content,” she opens up. Apart from that she also feels that the Tamil film industry hasn’t considered her to be one among them. “It is very funny. I have played a Punjabi girl, a Delhi girl and a girl from New York. I also come from a multicultural background. Despite all these, Tamil cinema hasn’t been welcoming,” she remarks.