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The Bold and the Beautiful Priyamani

You cannot resist having a conversation with the poised Priyamani . She is very outspoken, confident, and undoubtedly candid. Revealing her interests apart from acting, she shared her experiences about Kerala, its culture and Onam.

Published

11 years ago

October 17, 2014

FWDmedia

Talented, confident and ever charming, Priyamani conquered the hearts of Malayalees with the versatile roles she donned. Born into a Tamil Brahmin family and brought up in Bangalore, her love for Malayalam movies is at its peak. She etched on our minds the poignant Malavika from Thirakkatha and the vibrant Padmashree from Pranchiyettan and the Saint. Her courage to deal with criticisms helped her with her comebacks. She entered with great strength and confidence into the film industry.

You started your modelling days at college, how and when did you know movies were also something in your pocket?

I had no plans to join the industry, it all happened by chance. I did get a lot of calls post TV commercials that I did in Chennai as well as Kerala, but I didn’t want to enter into films immediately, I was studying then. In fact, my first movie audition was for Fazil sir’s movie opposite Fahad. Faazil sir was quite pleased with the audition, he wanted me to sign the film immediately. But I couldn’t do that because of my exams; I lost that opportunity. The movie was in fact Fahad’s launchpad. After my exams, I got a chance for Bharathiraja sir’s movie, and that’s how I got into the industry.

In the evolution of the movie world, what changes can you see in movies and the life of actresses in general?

In terms of the story, there is a lot of originality. Talking about the life of an actress, I’m quite relieved that there are more heroine oriented films coming up. Though a hero romancing the heroine is the given formula, it is slowly changing. With an initialization of heroine oriented movies, I hope it continues.

How is that you deal with the criticism of critics and what is the one stereotype that was common?

Of late, there hasn’t been any criticism per say. Initially, when Bhaarathiraja sir’s film released, I hadn’t been to any acting classes. My acting school was none other than Bharathiraja sir himself. He used to enact every expression for the heroine, hero and all the artists involved in the film. What I did was just follow what he showed me. Initially, people said I was overacting, and the expressions were too loud and things like that. But for my next film with Balu Mahendra sir, the very same people wrote I was a dark horse in the film, and I had done a good job.

What is your opinion on glamorous roles, must every actress go for it?

When it comes to glamour we are in an industry where a certain amount of it is required. I would say that there should be a balance between performance and glamour. We have to look nice in front of the camera; we can’t look shabby. If actresses go for over-glamorous roles, kudos to them! They are confident that they can carry if off. I would say they should go for it.

Can you share any movie experiences where you really had to challenge yourself to play a scene or role?

It has to be three films; Paruthiveeran, Thirakkatha and Charulatha. Paruthiveeran was a one of a kind film. If we had to redo the film, it wouldn’t come out as good as it already is. We all were very raw at that point of time. It was the first time I was acting like a village girl and experiencing the village atmosphere. All thanks to Ameer; he helped me a lot with dubbing, acting, expressions and minute body language. Thirakkatha was about the life of an actress who was cancer-stricken. It was quite challenging to act out the frailness of the character suffering from chemotherapy sessions. Ranjith sir helped me a lot with that. The makeup man took 3 hours to do look for a cancer patient. I remember the first time I walked into the set, the moment they saw me the entire crew went silent. For Charulatha, acting as conjoined twins was not easy. We had to re-shoot every shot we took. In the movie, I had a body double. We took Deepika, a girl who matched my height and body. She was of great help. But it was tough for all of us physically and mentally because we had to shoot every scene twice. These three roles were hard and they challenged me.

How do you know you are perfectly suitable for a role in a movie?

The moment they tell me a story, if it catches my attention for the entire duration, I will take it up. Whether it is a ten minute or two-hour narration.It is not in my hands whether the movie becomes a hit or a flop. If I like the story and I am convinced, then I would sign up for it.

You’re in the show D for Dance, and you have an impeccable fashion sense. Can you talk about the style that you emulate?

I would always go for something in vogue. I like to keep myself updated by reading about various fashion designers or any other fashion related articles. I can say that the 70’s and 80’s look is coming back to style. In fact, there are movies coming out based on that period, time, term. We can see the fashion that was in trend at that point of time.

You’ve got a flair for dance, what role does dance play in your life?

Dance definitely played and still plays an important role in my life. From a very young age, I was into dancing, especially because it’s like an extra-curricular activity. I have not learnt a particular form, but I am interested in freestyle. It improves the body’s flexibility. There was one film in Telugu, a heroine-oriented film which required a lot of fight sequences. Dance helped me a lot because fighting is also like dance choreography. The only difference is that the postures and the way you move are different. Apart from acting is there anything else there any other passion? I am an avid ‘animalholic’, especially dogs and cats. I have a chow chow, and his name is Mocha. He is adorably cute and like a ball of fur. When I go for shoots, my mum takes care of him. He is more attached to her. He is not mischievous as such. I strongly believe pets should be on their. They should do whatever they want.

Hailing from Kerala, what’s the one stand out factor of Kerala’s culture and Malayalam movies?

About Malayalam movies, hands down, its originality. You can’t get it anywhere else other than in Malayalam. As far as I know, till date I haven’t heard of a Malayalam film being a remake of some other movie. It is always the other films that are remakes of Malayalam films. Speaking of Kerala, the heart and soul of Kerala is its coconut trees and greenery. The other things that are exclusive to Kerala are tapioca, jackfruit and banana chips. You won’t get the originality of its flavour anywhere else.

How do you celebrate your Onam when you’re away from Kerala?

I have not celebrated Onam in the traditional way, but my mom makes one or two traditional dishes. When it comes to Onasadya, I am a diehard fan of Olan. I can live with Olan 365 days in a year. I also like avail and payasam. It is the first year I had a proper Sadya. I did not eat my breakfast so that I could have a fulfilling meal. I also like the Set mundu and Kasavu sari that is solely part of Kerala’s culture. It is at its best in Kerala, and you won’t look good if you try to replicate it.

What’s the biggest lesson in life that the world of filmdom has taught you?

Don’t believe anyone blindly. In my initial years, I have fallen for the words of people. They promise to do something, and they don’t live up to it. You believe because of the respect you have for that person and just fall for a small word of promise. It’s a very tricky industry; you need to be very careful about whom you are dealing with and how you deal with them. That is what I have learnt over the years. Upcoming projects at the moment, we are on the finishing stages of Sibi Malayil sir’s film Jnangalude Veettil Athithikkal opposite Jayaram sir and my Kannada film Ambareesha with Darshan. It’s complete and is getting ready for release.

QUICKIES

A Hollywood role you would love to don?

Keanu Reeves’s role in Speed or Meryl Streep’s role in Devil wears Prada.

A Malayalam Movie that should be nominated for the Oscars…

Manichitrathaazhu, Akkare akkare akkare, His Highness Abdulla. The list is never ending.

A book that’s on your nightstand…

The Dan Brown series.

A funny thing that no one knows about you?

I am petrified of lizards and cockroaches.

A song that’s currently playing on your phone?

Aysha from Thattathin Marayathu.

The ultimate dance party number for you?

One Two Three Four Get on the Dance Floor.

A current fashion trend that you enjoy?

High wasted pants, pencil skirts, knee-length skirt.

A role that has defined your lifetime of success?

Paruthiveeran.

Any roles you would love to play sometime in the future?

An out and out comedy role and a villain role.

Related Topics:malayalam mollywood movies priyamani

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Cover Story

THE QUIET FORCE OF A MODERN ICON

Published

3 weeks ago

May 13, 2025

Anandhu Aji

Behind every poised performance is a quiet, unshakable resolve—a journey of an artist who shows that true strength lies not in loud declarations, but in unwavering integrity and purpose.

There’s something about shoot days that hum with their own energy—where art direction instinct, and moments unfold faster than they can be captured. The FWD Magazine cover shoot with Madonna Sebastian was no exception. From the moment the segment began, it was a visual symphony—natural light, candid motion, curated chaos—all anchored by her easy presence.

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

By the time the cameras wrapped on the sunlit exteriors, Madonna returned indoors, slipping into a pristine white outfit that seemed to echo her state of mind: calm, clear, and open. The crew took a breather, the lenses cooled, but she remained in rhythm—poised yet unhurried.

It was then, in this in-between window—after the high-energy shoot, before the final touch-ups resumed—that she settled down for an unscripted chat with RJ Asha. No stage, no formal setup—just an airy corner of the space, a couple of chairs, and a warm conversation waiting to happen.

And that’s exactly what did. A moment carved out not for press quotes, but for perspective. For a glimpse into the artist behind the actress. The grounded soul behind the gaze the camera loves

You know Madonna. Or at least, you think you do.

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

She’s the chirpy Celine from Premam, the graceful Anjali from Kavan, the quiet storm in Kadhalum Kadanthu Pogum. But sitting across from her now, you start t0o sense something else. This is a woman who refuses to be boxed in by the roles she’s played, or the fame she’s earned. She isn’t just riding the wave of stardom—she’s surfing it, steering it, sometimes even swimming against it.

“I’ve never really chased this,” she says, “I just wanted to do good work. Whether it was singing, acting, even being on stage—if it didn’t feel honest, I’d walk away.”

That honesty has become her compass. It’s also what’s made her unpredictable in the best way. In an industry obsessed with hypervisibility and curated glam, Madonna’s detours feel radical. A music video here. A break to focus on home, or a spontaneous trip with friends there. No apologies. No PR spin. Just life.But make no mistake: there’s steel under the softness.

“I think people assume that if you’re polite or soft-spoken, you’re passive. That’s not true,” she says, eyes locking in. “I’ve said no more times than I’ve said yes in this industry. Not because I’m arrogant—but because I have clarity.”

That clarity has shaped her choices—from her refreshing screen presence to her deeply personal music. Her band’s indie singles drop like secret letters, far from the formulaic world of playback hits. Her voice, husky and haunting, doesn’t scream for attention. It holds it.

So how does she choose her projects?

Sometimes, it’s a script. Sometimes, it’s a song I’m writing at 2 a.m. under fairy lights. Sometimes it’s a film that pushes me out of my comfort zone, like Leo.”

Ah yes, Leo. The recent mega-hit that reminded audiences just how effortlessly she can hold her ground .

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

But ask her about the high of being in such a blockbuster, and she smiles without a trace of self-congratulation.

“It was a new space for me,” she admits. “Big canvas, big stakes. But what mattered most was working with people who respected the craft. I’m not into the noise around it. I liked the discipline of it.”

She’s not performing cool—she just is. In a world chasing trends, Madonna moves to her own rhythm.

Even her style says it all: breezy kurtas, vintage florals, bold red lips. Effortless. Unbothered.

When I ask about her five-year plan, she grins.

“I plan for joy. I plan for peace. I plan for purpose.”

That could mean a film—or a forest with no signal. She’s fine either way.

Madonna doesn’t demand attention. She owns it—with quiet power. And she’ll keep showing up, disappearing, and returning—on her terms.

Just like her art.

Madonna Sebastian for FWD Life magazine photoshoot

There’s a kind of presence that doesn’t chase attention—but effortlessly holds it. A quiet confidence that doesn’t need to speak loudly to be heard. In every gesture, every glance, there’s ease. Style, too, follows suit—never trying too hard, yet never fading into the background. A mix of breezy staples, soft silhouettes, vintage moods, and the occasional splash of edge—it all feels lived-in, not styled. Real.

Back inside, lights shift and lenses focus again. Another look, another frame—but nothing feels rehearsed. Just a rhythm she owns, unbothered by the pace around her. Some people leave impressions with spectacle. Others, with silence and substance.

This isn’t about trends or timelines. It’s about being grounded. It’s about rhythm over rush. And it’s a reminder that sometimes, the most magnetic thing in the room is the one not trying to be.

Cover Story

Starlit Wedding – Diya Krishna

Published

9 months ago

September 18, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

Actor Krishna Kumar’s daughter, Diya Krishna, a popular social media influencer, recently married Ashwin Ganesan, a software engineer, after a long-term relationship. The couple celebrated their special day with a beautiful ceremony at a luxurious hotel in Thiruvananthapuram. Diya’s family, including her siblings Ahaana, Ishani, and Hansika, along with her parents Sindhu Krishna and Krishna Kumar, looked radiant in coordinated light pink ensembles. The wedding was an intimate gathering, attended by close family and friends. Here are all the details of their magical day.

Haldi

For the Haldi ceremony, Diya and Ashwin were spotted in coordinated white outfits by Santini. The look was beautifully elevated with a pop of color from Diya’s pink dupatta and stunning floral jewellery by Florita Florals, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the celebration.

Diya’s Outfit : Santinni

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

MakeUp : Amala Brahmanandan

Jewellery : Florita Floral

Event Planner : Grand Oyster

Photography : Abhijith SK

Location : Taj Green Cove Resort & Spa

Mehendi

Diya looked effortlessly chic in a vibrant multi-colored skirt set by Mahek Designs for the Mehendi celebration. Ashwin complemented her perfectly with a multi-hued jacket by Santini, completing their joyful and lively Mehendi look.

Diya’s Outfit : MAHEK DESIGNS

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

Mehandi : MISHMA KAMAL

Event Planner : Grand Oyster

Photography : Abhijith SK

Sangeeth

Diya and Ashwin absolutely rocked their Sangeet in stunning black outfits by Santini, exuding elegance and style as they celebrated the night in perfect sync!

Diya’s Outfit : Santinni

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

Jewellery : Atelier by Regal Jewellers

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

DJ : TONIQ SQUAD

Photography : Abhijith SK

Wedding

For the wedding, Diya truly dazzled in a polished pastel-themed saree designed by the talented M Loft by Joel. Styled in a manner reminiscent of Bollywood star Alia Bhatt’s iconic fashion sense, the saree was a vision of beauty, adorned with elegant detailing, intricate embroidery, and flowing glamour, imparting a regal charm to her bridal look.

Diya’s Outfit : M LOFT

Aswin’s Outfit : M LOFT

Jewellery : Atelier by Regal Jewellers, Regal Jewellers

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Draping : Aamee Hafsa Nazar

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

Garlands : Black Gold Flowers

Photography : Abhijith SK

Wedding Second Look

For her second wedding look, Diya embraced a simple yet elegant white Kerala traditional set mundu, perfectly complemented by traditional jewelry from Bhima. Ashwin matched the aesthetic, dressed in a silk shirt and mundu by M Loft, creating a timeless and graceful duo.

Aswin’s Outfit : M LOFT

Jewellery : Bhima

MakeUp : Laxmi Venugopal

Draping : Aamee Hafsa Nazar

Event Planner : Grand Oyster, Decor Lab Events

Photography : Abhijith SK

Reception

At the Delhi reception, Diya stunned in a maroon saree, perfectly capturing the elegance of a newlywed. The North Indian-style chooda added a beautiful touch to her look. Ashwin complemented her effortlessly, looking sharp in a sleek black suit by Santinni.

Diya’s Outfit : Shazara Design Studio

Aswin’s Outfit : Santinni

Cover Story

Onam Elegance: Decoding the Traditional and Modern Looks of M-Town Celebs

Published

9 months ago

September 16, 2024

Reshma Vivekanandan

Onam, the grand harvest festival of Kerala, is a celebration of tradition, culture, and elegance. Each year, Malayalam movie celebrities embrace the essence of the festival by donning a mix of timeless traditional outfits and contemporary styles that reflect their unique flair. From graceful sarees to classic set mundus, the stars bring out the best of Kerala’s sartorial heritage. In this lookbook, we decode the standout fashion moments from your favorite M-Town celebs, showcasing how they beautifully combine tradition with modern elegance to make a statement this Onam season.

Anushree

Anushree looked stunning in a double-colored set mundu from Naithu by Sruthi Prasanth, beautifully accessorized with exquisite jewels from Malabar Gold and Diamonds. Her look was perfectly complemented by flawless makeup by Sajith & Sujith.

Mahima Nambiar

Mahima Nambiar looks stunning in T & M Signature’s Onam collection, “Thumbayum Thulasiyum.” Her festive look is perfectly complemented by exquisite jewelry from MOD Signature. Styled by Jobina Vincent, the ensemble is further enhanced with flawless makeup and hair by Pinky Visal, creating a captivating Onam look.

Ahaana Krishna

Ahaana Krishna exudes her signature charm with a simple yet effortlessly stylish look for this Onam in Black Set Mundu. Staying true to her unique “Ahaana style,” her minimalistic makeup and elegant hair were beautifully crafted by Amala Brahmanandan, perfectly complementing her festive vibe.

The Sukumaran Family

The Sukumaran family radiates elegance in their traditional Onam attire. Indrajith and Prithviraj opted for timeless simplicity, donning classic white shirts paired with mundus, while Mallika Sukumaran exudes a proud motherly grace in a beautiful, classic Kerala saree, perfectly capturing the spirit of the festival.

Shilpa Bala

Shilpa Bala looks stunning and stylish in a white and orange traditional salwar by Kalaakari, exuding festive charm. The look, styled by Rashmi Muraleedharan, is perfectly complemented by elegant jewelry from Pure Allure. Her radiant makeup and hair, done by Sanaah, complete this beautiful Onam ensemble.

Anikha Surenderan

Draped in the stunning ‘Nila’ saree by Anusha Reji, Anikha Surendran mesmerizes with her grace and style. Styled to perfection by Mehaka Kalarikkal, her look is elevated by exquisite jewelry from Goldencup Bridal Rental Jewellery. With flawless makeup and hair by Ashif Marakkar. Anikha’s Onam look is truly captivating.

Nikhila Vimal

Like a muse straight from Raja Ravi Varma’s timeless canvas, Nikhila Vimal exudes ethereal charm in a stunning Pen Kalamkari Kanchipuram saree by The Saffron House. Styled by Smiji, her look is further elevated by flawless makeup and hair by Femy Antony

Dulquer Salman

Dulquer Salmaan looks ravishing in a classic white kurta set, effortlessly blending tradition with chic style. His Onam look radiates simplicity and elegance, making a timeless fashion statement for the festive season.

Pearly Maany

Pearly Maany looks stunning in a saree from T & M Signature’s Onam collection, “Thumbayum Thulasiyum.” Her elegant look is perfectly complemented by exquisite jewelry from MOD Signature Jewellery, with flawless makeup and hair by Touch by SiRe. The saree draping, beautifully done by Krishnapriya P V, completes Pearly’s enchanting festive ensemble.

Arya Babu

Arya graces this Onam in a pure Kerala handloom set saree by Kanchivaram.in, embodying the true essence of tradition and festivity. Styled by Sabari Nath, her look is beautifully complemented by elegant jewelry from Gemforher, with flawless makeup and hair crafted by Manju Michael’s Salon. Arya’s ensemble is a perfect reflection of timeless Onam elegance.

Navya Nair

Navya stuns in her Onam look, wearing a beautiful outfit by Jugalbandhi. Her flawless makeup and hair, crafted by Sijan Joseph, enhance the festive charm. Adorned with exquisite jewelry from R. Giri Pai Jewellery, the look is captured to perfection by Black Lenzio, making Navya a vision of elegance this Onam.

Priya Prakash Varrier

Priya Prakash Varrier looks gorgeous and modern in a stunning saree by Mloft. Styled by Asaniya Nazrin, her look is flawlessly complemented by makeup and hair crafted by Unni, making her stand out with a perfect blend of traditional elegance and contemporary chic.

Aparna Balamurali

Aparna Balamurali looks traditionally beautiful in a Kerala saree by R O U K A by Sreejith Jeevan. Styled by Rashmi Muraleedharan, her look is complemented with flawless makeup and hair by Sruthi Sai. The ensemble is completed with exquisite jewelry from Nakshathra Gold and Diamonds, making Aparna’s Onam look timeless and elegant.

Amala Paul & Family

Amala Paul’s family Onam picture is an absolute dream, with the family dressed in stunning red and white outfits. Amala shines in an elegant ensemble by Made by Milan, while Jagat looks dapper in his outfit from House of Messcal. Styled by Sapna Fathima Kajha, the look is further enhanced by flawless makeup and hair by Sajith & Sujith, and exquisite jewelry from Cressida Signature Jewels. Together, they capture the perfect festive spirit in this beautiful Onam portrait.

Rajisha Vijayan

Rajisha looks stunning in a leaf-printed saree by ALDA Designer, effortlessly blending tradition with a modern twist. Styled by Amritha Lakshmi, her look is perfectly complemented by makeup and hair by Laxmi Venugopal. The ensemble is enhanced with elegant jewelry from TT Devassy Jewellery, and the draping, beautifully done by Exotic Makeover’s Elizabeth Shinitha, completes this mesmerizing Onam look.

Miya

Miya embraces the spirit of Onam in a pure Kerala handloom Kasavu saree by Kanchivaram.in, radiating traditional elegance. Styled by Sabari Nath, her look is beautifully complemented by makeup and hair by Sijan Joseph. The ensemble is further enhanced with exquisite jewelry from Mayoora Jewelry Designs, and the saree draping, skillfully done by Krishnapriya P V, completes this timeless Onam look.