OTT has definitely proved been a game-changer in more ways than one, says Shanthipriya | EXCLUSIVE
In an exclusive interview with Desimartini, the veteran actress Shanthipriya speaks about her much talked about comeback and also about her most awaited film Bad Girl
Updated : January 28, 2025 07:33 PM ISTIn an exclusive interview with Desimartini, the veteran actress Shanthipriya speaks about her much talked about comeback and also about her most awaited film Bad Girl
OTT has definitely proved been a game-changer in more ways than one, says Shanthipriya | EXCLUSIVE
After having made her debut in Bollywood with the Akshay Kumar starrer Saugandh (which paved the way to many other films), the petite Shanthipriya went onto conquer the hearts of the cinegoers down south as well. Besides her other roles, her fans still remember as the graceful Shakuntala in the popular mythological serial Vishwamitra.
Even though she was the younger sister of the actress Bhanupriya, she toiled day in and out to carve a niche for herself in the entertainment arena. After having made an astounding comeback with the Suniel Shetty starrer Dharavi Bank, the stunning Shanthipriya is now all set to capture everyone’s hearts and attention with Bad Girl, which will be screened at the Rotterdam Film Festival.
Desimartini caught up with none other than the lady herself Shanthipriya for a super exclusive interview.
To start with, you have been a part of the glam industry for so long. What, in your opinion, has been that one moment that you can call it as a career defining moment?
For me, it was the day I stepped onto a film set for the first time. That magical feeling of belonging cemented my love for the craft and gave me the confidence to pursue this journey.
These are the days of OTT and digital streaming. Do you think that it's a good thing that has happened to the entertainment industry as it has opened many job opportunities or do you feel that the audiences have now got diluted because of it?
In simple words, OTT has definitely proved been a game-changer in more ways than one! It has opened the doors for so many talented people and has also brought a variety of stories to the forefront. In my opinion, it is definitely a blessing, as it gives audiences more choices and creators more freedom.
You started off with the Bollywood masala film Saugandh, which starred Akshay Kumar, who is not only still ruling Bollywood, but also is extremely relevant even after so many years. What do you think, could be the factor that is working in his favour?
Akshay’s discipline and his ability to constantly reinvent himself are remarkable. He stays connected to the pulse of the audience, which, I believe, is his biggest strength.
You are the granddaughter-in-law of the legendary V. Shantaram, who is considered as one of the biggest pillars of Hindi Cinema. Does that put extra pressure on you?
It’s an honour more than pressure. His legacy inspires me to always strive for excellence and to respect cinema as an art form.
You made a grand comeback with the hit series Dharavi Bank. If you had to sum up the entire Dharavi Bank in one word/ line, what would that be?
Intense and raw—both in its storytelling and my experience working in it.
Talking about comebacks, rarely does any actor/ actress get the honour of making a comeback after as many as 31 years (away from showbiz) and immediately be a part of the film like Bad Girl,
which will be screened at the Rotterdam Film Festival. How is the entire experience/ feeling like?
It’s surreal! After so many years away, to have a film like Bad Girl screen at an international festival feels like life coming full circle. I’m extremely grateful.
Your take on the managers’ lobby!
Every industry has its dynamics. But I believe that talent and hard work always shine through in the end.
There was a time when you were known as Nishanti. What made you come back to your original name?
It was a phase where I was experimenting and finding myself. But returning to my real name felt like coming home—it’s who I truly am.
Is it true that you are even learning ballroom dancing?
Yes, it’s true! Dance has always been a passion, and ballroom dancing is a beautiful way to express myself while learning something new.
Besides the competition outside, you had competition in-house itself, with your sister Bhanu Priya also being an actress. How did both of you look at competition?
We never saw it as competition. It was always mutual admiration and support. We cheered each other on, and that bond made everything special.
When do we see you as a director? And what is your dream project?
Someday, might! My dream project would be a deeply emotional story about relationships, resilience, and rediscovery—something that truly moves people.