Daijiworld Media Network - Chennai

Chennai, Jul 26: For acclaimed actress Nithya Menen, performance has always taken precedence over appearance. In an industry obsessed with a narrow definition of beauty, Nithya has steadfastly refused to conform.

"Yes, there is pressure," she admitted in an exclusive interview. "But it's very important for me to be someone who represents something beyond the superficial... something that hits the heart and not just the eye."

Known for her honest, rooted portrayals, Nithya says she never aimed to fit into the industry's ‘aspirational’ box. “My subject isn't about looking a certain way. I'm here to perform, not fit a mould. Real human beings come in all forms. We don’t all look the same, and we shouldn’t have to.”

Her latest Tamil film, Thalaivan Thalaivi, co-starring Vijay Sethupathi, is a reflection of this conviction. Set in Madurai, the story revolves around a couple whose quiet love turns into emotional turmoil. Nithya plays a woman battling affection and frustration within a crumbling marriage.

True to her style, she kept things natural and raw for the role. “We make realistic films, and it’s important to look real. I didn’t even have a makeup artist on this film. We made sure nothing looked too polished,” she revealed.

With every role, Nithya Menen continues to prove that depth and honesty on screen come not from glamour, but from grounded storytelling and powerful performances.