By Entering the World of Cinema with the Privilege of Being My Mother’s Daughter Was a Blessing I Cherish Every Day, Says Actress Devi
Actress Devi, who made her mark in the Tulu film Pidayi, recently opened up to Bangalore Times about her journey in the film industry, her admiration for her mother, and how she’s embracing the evolution of Indian cinema. As the daughter of veteran Malayalam actress Jalaja, Devi feels deeply rooted in the world of cinema and grateful for the influence her mother has had on her career and life.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have Amma as my role model,” Devi said, referring to her mother Jalaja. “She’s been a guiding light for me, both personally and professionally. Growing up with a mother who was already part of the industry gave me a certain perspective on the magic and hard work that goes into making films. I’ve only recently entered the industry, and I know that being her daughter helped open a few doors for me. It brought me a level of respect right from the start, which I deeply value.”
Her love for the art form runs deep. “Cinema has always played a big role in my life,” Devi reflected. “Since childhood, I’ve been fascinated by films and the way they transport you to different worlds. Honestly, I can’t say for sure whether my passion for cinema came first or the realization that Amma was an actress. Maybe both came hand in hand. But what I do know is that I’ve always believed in the magic of cinema. I love how it can completely absorb you, make you forget everything else, and allow you to experience someone else’s story while sitting in a dark theatre.”
Devi also spoke about how Indian cinema is constantly evolving. With technological advancements and a growing appetite for diverse content, the boundaries within the industry are becoming more fluid. “Today, the world of cinema is getting smaller in the best way possible,” she said. “Language barriers are breaking down. We’re seeing more bilingual, trilingual, and pan-Indian films that are reaching audiences across regions. It’s a wonderful time to be part of the industry because our work is no longer limited by geography or language.”
However, she also emphasized the importance of cultural authenticity. “While I love that films can now reach a wider audience, I also believe there’s something special about a film being made in one specific language. It captures the true essence of the culture it’s based on. When you focus on a single language, the storytelling often feels more grounded and genuine. There’s a beauty in that simplicity and honesty.”
Devi’s journey into cinema wasn’t rushed. Her parents, including her mother Jalaja, always emphasized the importance of completing her education before diving into her passion. “Looking back, I’m truly thankful for that,” she shared. “At the time, I was eager to jump straight into acting, but my parents were firm about the need to finish my studies first. Now, I understand how valuable that decision was. Education gave me a solid foundation and a different kind of confidence that helps me navigate the ups and downs of the industry.”
For Devi, stepping into the limelight is more than just following in her mother’s footsteps—it’s about carving out her own identity in a world she has long admired. “Cinema is not just a career for me; it’s a lifelong passion. I’m excited to grow, learn, and evolve as an actor. I feel incredibly lucky to be part of this world, and I’m looking forward to telling stories that move people, just like the films that inspired me growing up.”
