In the tapestry of the film industry, veteran actor Shanthi Priya reflects on the transformative journey from the silver screen of the 1990s to the digital age of today.
Priya, renowned for her captivating performance in the 1993 classic Phool Aur Angaar, draws a stark contrast between the filmmaking practices of yesteryears and the meticulous precision of modern productions.
Social media has become the omnipresent chronicler of our lives, she observes. In the past, film shoots were cloaked in a shroud of secrecy, devoid of monitors on sets or dedicated rehearsals.
Dialogues, once delivered spontaneously, are now meticulously crafted through multiple readings and rehearsals, ensuring seamless performances. Action sequences, previously executed with a spontaneous flair, now undergo rigorous planning and preparation.
The entire filmmaking process, from pre-production to post-production, has undergone a sea change, with meticulous attention paid to every aspect of the production.
Earlier, a film would organically evolve over a span of six to eight months, Priya recalls. Now, every detail is meticulously planned from the outset, including casting, location scouting, and costume design.
The advent of streaming platforms has introduced a new era of storytelling, and Priya was astounded by the level of professionalism she encountered on the set of the OTT series Dharavi Bank (2022).
Costumes were meticulously chosen to align with the lighting and mood of each scene, she reveals. In the 90s, our wardrobe options were limited to a few sarees, with occasional purchases from the market if the stylist deemed our choices unsuitable.
Today, each department within the production team operates with an unprecedented level of preparedness, ensuring a seamless and efficient workflow.
Priya marvels at the rapid passage of time since her debut Hindi film, Saugandh (1991), which marked her cinematic collaboration with the enigmatic Akshay Kumar.
The film was shot in the picturesque city of Lucknow, she reminisces. It was during that time that Lucknow began to flourish, boasting vast green spaces.
The memories of her first Hindi film hold a special place in her heart, evoking fond recollections of the city that served as its backdrop.
Priya's career has been characterized by a harmonious balance between personal life and professional pursuits.
My work schedule has always been punctuated by periods of hiatus, she explains. After getting married in 1992, I focused on my family.
Her return to the limelight came in 2002 with the television show Aryaman, followed by the mythological series Mata Ki Chowki in 2008.
After a hiatus from South Indian films, Priya is poised for a triumphant return with a film directed by acclaimed filmmaker Vetrimaaran and a biopic depicting the life of a freedom fighter. She is also set to grace the screens of a Hindi web show.
As the industry continues to evolve, Shanthi Priya remains an enduring presence, her adaptability and passion for her craft serving as a testament to the enduring allure of cinema.
