She also wondered which female lead would turn down a Shankar-Kamal Haasan project with significant screen time.
Published Aug 07, 2024 | 6:09 PM ⚊ Updated Aug 07, 2024 | 6:09 PM
Priya Bhavani Shankar on distasteful reception to 'Indian 2'. (X)
Shankar’s Indian 2, the sequel to the 1996 film Indian, has faced significant backlash. Priya Bhavani Shankar, who played one of the female leads in Indian 2, revealed that she was bullied and trolled, with some blaming her for the film’s negative reception.
In an interview with Galatta, Priya Bhavani Shankar expressed that while she was hurt by the backlash, she has no regrets about her role in Indian 2. She emphasised that a film’s reception can vary, and it’s unfair to place the blame on a single individual.
The actor explained that no one works on a film expecting it to fail. “Every technician puts in hard work hoping for success. It’s a major disappointment when a film doesn’t do well, regardless of one’s stature. Even knowing the potential outcome, I would still accept a role in Indian 2. After its release, I anticipated backlash, but the extent of the bullying has been painful.”
Priya Bhavani Shankar noted that signing Indian 2 led to numerous offers for her, as it was her first major film.
“Unfortunately, people tend to offer roles based on your involvement in big projects. This is just how the industry works, and I’m not complaining.”
She further said that a film’s success is not solely dependent on one person. “Even with stars like Rajinikanth and Vijay, a film’s success isn’t guaranteed just because of their involvement. There are many factors at play, and it’s all about teamwork. If a film doesn’t connect with the audience, it’s disappointing, but the key is to learn from it and strive to improve.”
When asked if she would change her decision, Priya Bhavani Shankar said she would still choose Indian 2. “Show me a female lead in the industry who would turn down a Shankar-Kamal Haasan project with significant screen time. I don’t regret it. I took the role for all the right reasons, and while the outcome may not always meet expectations, I stand by my decision. I apologise to the audience if we didn’t meet their expectations.”
She’s so hurt by the baseless trolls bullying her for a few flops..
Yet, She replies with such a Clarity! Well Articulated Answer!@priya_Bshankar 👏💙🫂🔥People who bully her for those Roles, should rather insist the Creators to give better roles and representation for women. pic.twitter.com/b4LNTJXV8D
— தோழர் ஆதி (@RjAadhi2point0) August 7, 2024
When asked about her perspective on success and failure, Priya Bhavani Shankar said success never inflated her ego.
“Even when films like Meyaadha Maan (2017), Kadaikutty Singam (2018), Monster (2019), and Thiruchitrambalam (2022) did well, I didn’t think it was solely because of me. I didn’t receive credit for their success. However, when things go wrong, I reflect on why. I’ve been well-compensated and recognise that I’m not perfect. I learn and improve daily. While I don’t claim sole credit for success, it’s painful to be blamed for a film’s failure.”
Priya Bhavani Shankar is awaiting the release of Demonte Colony 2, which will hit the theatres on 15 August.
Demonte Colony 2, directed by Ajay Gnanamuthu and starring Arulnithi, is the sequel to the 2015 horror film Demonte Colony.
The original film, set in Demonte Colony in Chennai’s Alwarpet, was made on a modest budget and earned over ₹15 crore at the box office.
Sam CS composed the music, and Deepak D Menon handled the cinematography for the film. The supporting cast features Meenakshi Govindarajan, Arun Pandian, Sarjano Khalid, and Muthukumaran.
(Edited by Y Krishna Jyothi)
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