7 questions with Priya Prakash Varrier who recently became the 'National crush'

Little did 18-year-old Priya Prakash Varrier know that a teaser clip of the song Manikya Malaraya Poovi from the upcoming Malayalam film Oru Adaar Love would make her a household name. It features the young actress, dressed in a school uniform, winking at a fellow student. Ever since the video went viral, the youngster has sent the internet in a tizzy. She has not only raked up over 4.5 million followers on Instagram, but also displaced Sunny Leone as the most searched name on Google in the last few days. In a tête-à-tête with After Hrs, the first year BCom student, who is still coming to terms with her instant popularity, says, “It feels good that people have started recognising me.” Excerpts from the interview...

Did you expect such fame in such short time?

I never expected this to happen. The response I got after the video went viral is massive. I was so excited. I was selected for a small part, but ended up doing a prominent role in the film. Director Omar (Lulu) sir liked the scenes in which I had acted and extended the role. All the credit actually goes to him. He is the man behind the viral wink and mock gun shoot. I’m grateful to all my co-artistes too.

For the first time, Sunny Leone was displaced from the No.1 position on top Google searches. How does that feel?

I was so surprised to read that news. It’s a nice feeling that people are spending their time searching for me on Google (smiles).

Tell us more about your background. Also, did you always want to pursue acting?

My family comprises my grandparents, parents and my younger brother. I always wanted to act in films. Now, a lot of offers are pouring in but at the moment, I won’t be able to take up anything else as we haven’t finished filming Oru Adaar Love yet.

Do you aspire to act in Hindi films too?

Yes. Every actor actually loves to set their foot in Bollywood. I’m no different. I’m looking forward to getting offers from there.

Recently, Rishi Kapoor also tweeted about you and he expressed how he would have loved to work with you as a lead hero. What was your reaction?

I was so thrilled to see that tweet. I was extremely happy that he expressed his desire to work with me.

In Bollywood, who are your favourite actors? Whom do you want to work with?

I like Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh and Sidharth Malhotra. I also admire and love Deepika Padukone. I’ll be happy if I get to work with them someday.

What are your future plans?

I want to complete my studies. At the same time, I would like to do more films. Right now, I’m waiting to complete the shoot for Oru Adaar Love. I’ve got a lot of offers from various industries. I’m excited and curious to know how things will turn out. I am keeping my fingers crossed.