Actress Priya Anand, known for her versatility across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, and Hindi films, recently appeared in Controll opposite Thakur Anoop Singh, which released on October 10. In an exclusive chat with Zoom, Priya opened up about why she chose the film, what drew her to her character, how working in different industries shaped her and much more!
Unfiltered Priya Anand!
Priya began by sharing what she loved about her character in Controll and what made the film special to her, “This movie was actually a Tamil remake and I predominantly started off my career in Tamil. When it came out in Tamil, it was an interesting film to watch as an audience. So it was really exciting for me to be a part of the Hindi remake. However, the character has changed between the Tamil and Hindi versions.”
She added that more than her role, the relevance of the story appealed to her, saying, “For me, it’s always nice to be part of stories that are relevant in some sense. Controll revolves around scams – we all know someone who’s been scammed. The scams are so realistic now; you get voice notes with your aunt’s voice asking for money. It was important to do a film that was relevant and brings awareness in a cinematic way.”
Talking about her experience of playing the role, Priya said she didn’t find it challenging but found excitement in being part of a meaningful story. She told Zoom, “This is a commercial film, so I can’t pretend that my role was very challenging. For me, the excitement was to be part of a movie that has a story important to tell. It’s rooted in the middle-class lifestyle. We’re not showing flashy characters. When a scam happens to middle-class people, it’s make or break for them. The emotions are very real.”
Sharing her shooting experience in Lucknow, Priya said it was both enjoyable and refreshing. The actress said, “I got to shoot in Lucknow, places I had only visited for promotions or travel. It’s always nice when a film takes you to new locations. The food was amazing and we had a young cast. After a long time, I worked with people trying to establish themselves. That hunger was inspiring and much needed for me at that time.”
She recalled fun behind-the-scenes memories with her co-stars, especially during the Lucknow schedule. “Everyone was super fit and would try to drag me to the gym! These boys motivated me to start taking care of myself. The cast was young and enthusiastic. Thakur sings, and the boys’ room was always happening. You’d hear the producers and executive producer jamming every evening. It was lovely to witness that energy.”
When asked if she was ever worried about how the project might turn out, Priya reflected on her career learnings. “With all the ups and downs I’ve seen, one thing I’ve learned is we cannot decide if a film is small or big – the audience does. The most important thing is the right intention when making a project. Controll had that. You can only hope the audience reacts positively. You can’t control the outcome, only give an honest shot.”
Talking about the film’s theatrical appeal, she explained why Controll is best enjoyed on the big screen. “This movie is rooted in what people are suffering. It’s not about one small town; scams happen everywhere. We’ve all been scammed online in some way. The story revolves around something everyone can relate to. It’s also cinematic – it has action, romance, emotion, and drama. For a theater experience, this film has a lot to offer.”
Priya also discussed whether female leads are treated differently across film industries and which regional industry, according to her, writes the best characters. “The best writing in our country comes from Malayalam cinema. I’ve done three films there, and two were huge projects. Malayalam films are very story-driven and even superstars experiment with roles. Elsewhere, it depends on the filmmaker’s intent. Some write well-developed female characters; others use them as commercial elements.”
She added that her own image as an actor has influenced the kind of roles she’s offered. “I’ve always been the girl next door, someone rooted in reality. So I’ve not really done over-the-top roles.” When asked if she fears being typecast, Priya said she has evolved with time. “The roles I wanted early in my career are very different from what appeals to me now. I’m not at a stage where I do work just to be seen. I think more about who I want to spend those months with and what the intention of the film is. Those things matter more to me now.”
She also shared what genres excite her the most. “Malayalam cinema has been amazing for me. My first film there was a serious horror movie with Prithviraj-it was a huge hit. Later, I did a period film with Nivin Pauly and Mohanlal Sir that collected 100 crores. I’ve been lucky to do diverse roles. I love working with new talent – the same genre can feel fresh depending on the screenplay.”
In a quick segment, Priya answered some fun questions.
What is the USP of your bond with Thakur Anoop Singh?
“I’m inspired by him. He truly is inspiring for me.”
If you weren’t an actor, what career would you pick?
“Something with interiors and home decor.”
What does your cheat meal look like?
“My cheat meal is my everyday meal! I eat everything I want. I don’t follow a diet-I even order dessert before my meal.”
What’s your social media mantra?
“I just do what I feel like. I don’t get caught up in trends.”
One director you want to work with next?
“Someone new who wants to do something cutting-edge and shake up the system.”
One film you can watch again and again?
“Anything Sridevi! Especially Shanakshanam by Ram Gopal Varma-I can watch it a million times.”
How would your co-stars describe you?
“Kind and happy.”
Your favourite co-star?
“Dr. Puneeth Rajkumar. I did my first Kannada film with him and was also part of his last movie. He’ll always be my favourite everything.”
What’s the secret to staying relevant in the industry?
“If people want you, they’ll keep you relevant. Gimmicks work for a while, but the audience decides who stays. I don’t have a manager, PR, or attend parties. If people like you, you’ll always be around.”
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