I have learned to deal with the adulation: Priya Prakash Varrier

Priya Prakash Varrier became an overnight sensation on social media with one wink and a lift of her eyebrow in a song sequence from her debut film Oru Adaar Love (the Telugu dubbed version is called  Lovers Day), directed by Omar Lulu. "It’s releasing in Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and Malayalam. It is a film about high school romance and I’m elated that it is one of the most-awaited films across the country," says Priya.

The 19-year-old actor from Thrissur admits that she is enjoying all the attention and reveals that she was passionate about acting since her childhood. "After that wink from my debut film, I have been flooded with offers across industries, including a film with Allu Arjun in Telugu. However, I haven't accepted any film as I was determined to first complete my debut film," explains Priya.

The B Com second-year student says that she is not feeling the pressure of being a star and asserts that she's not bothered by what people think. "I see the need to outgrow this phase and want to achieve something as an actor. The adulation never really got to me, and I have learned to deal with it. Being an actor is the major driving force in my life now. I want to prove myself." She does, however, admit that she is glad that people from across the country have been admiring her. "I enjoy being in the social media spotlight and I read everything written about me. I find strength from the praise and try to learn something from the criticism," adds the internet sensation.

Does she seek guidance from her family or the industry people for her career? "I listen to the script and discuss it with my father. However, the final call will always be mine."

Her debut Bollywood film, Sridevi Bungalow, has landed in a controversy with Bollywood producer and late actor Sridevi's husband, Boney Kapoor sending legal notices to the team over the film’s title and the depiction of the lead character’s death.

Sharing her thoughts on the issue, Priya shares, "Sridevi is my name in the film. It was not our intention to create a controversy. The director and producer of the film will respond to such issues. Some scenes shown in the trailer have triggered this debate. But I think one should not judge that the film is based on Sridevi without watching the film. I want the audience to decide. The reason why I signed this film is that it has an interesting storyline and is centred around a female character."