A major takeaway from the previous year will be to avoid taking life too seriously.
Iswarya Menon
Having started her career in 2012, Iswarya Menon is the portrayal of grace. Right from Kadhalil Sodhappuvadhu Yeppadi to Monsoon Mangoes, Veera and Naan Sirithal, the 25-year-old is yet to step into the field of glamour and luxury to spread the spark from within.
What does a day in your life during the pandemic look like?
Initially, I enjoyed a few months of the pandemic. From sitting at home and playing with coffee (My Golden Retriever) to bonding with mom and dad and eating delicious food cooked by mom on a daily basis, I have eaten loads. We used to watch films together. It was memorable. This pandemic has definitely taught us that life is short and every day is a bonus, which should be celebrated.
Since you were featured on the cover of ‘WE Magazine,’ what were the responses received by you? And, what was your experience?
That was my very first magazine cover. It was very exciting. I had a nice time shooting for it.
The 2020 release, ‘Naan Sirithal,’ was unknowingly your last film of the year, after which the industry went on a break. Once the pandemic kicked in, what did you do, in order to cope with your mental health?
Naan Sirithal released just before the pandemic and I am so grateful for that. Can’t imagine not having a release for a year. All I can say is that God was extremely kind. The film did really well as well. Once the pandemic kicked in, the initial family bonding was fun. But, post that, it did get monotonous and I started to miss work. I missed shooting and just couldn’t wait to get back to work. I wouldn’t say that I was depressed. I am a happy person, try to be happy all the time and I love making people around me happy. Of course, I do have my lows, but I still try to count on my blessings and try to be happy. Always remember that happiness is an inner feeling.
If you had to strike a comparison between Raana and C. S. Amudhan, what would the major difference look like?
Both were brilliant in their own way. Amudhan Sir is a very witty man and his sense of timing is great. He is extremely spontaneous. It was fun working with him and he is an entertainer. I used to look forward to shoot every day. It was the same for Naan Sirithal as well. I enjoyed working with Raana and it didn’t seem like it was his first film. He was super confident with his craft. He always knew exactly what he wanted and he used to make sure that he received a similar attitude from his team. He is soft spoken and extremely humble. I have never seen Raana loose his calm. I thoroughly enjoyed working with the both of them.
Working with Actors including Prabhu Deva and Hiphop Tamizha Adhi, what have your experiences and learnings been?
Aadhi is a powerhouse. He is always high on energy. That is the one quality I adore in him. I love it when people are high on energy because I am like that. I enjoy being associated with happy people when I am working. Working with Prabhu Deva Sir was brilliant. I love dancing and I have always looked up to him. He is super graceful & his moves are very unique. He is a great Actor, Director and what not! I enjoyed working with Prabhu Deva Sir for Knorr. It was a wonderful experience.
As you claimed that keeping your workout routine on track was a task, what was your daily dose of motivation?
I love working out. But yes, there are days when I am super lazy and I just don’t want to workout. But I still push myself. Because, I know for a fact that I am going to thank myself post workout. I would feel good from within. So, I make sure that I workout for at least 4 days in a week.
What are some of the major takeaways from the previous year, that you would religiously follow for the rest of your life?
Well, the major takeaway from 2020 for me was not to take life too seriously. There is absolutely no point in running behind anything, because ultimately nothing is in your control. That is what I have learnt. Life is precious and the pandemic has taught us that.
In your opinions, what does the scenario of the Kollywood Industry post pandemic look like?
Everything is back to normal with necessary precautions. I realized how much I missed work, when I was on the sets of Knorr with Prabhu Deva Sir. I am going to start shooting again from next month, which I am super excited for. Just can’t wait to get to work!
To cultivate safety measures, what would your piece of advice to your fans and loved ones be?
The only thing we can do right now is to build our immunity. So, try to eat healthy and workout. Some kind of physical activity is really important, even a walk would work. Be safe and wear a mask, for this too shall pass.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I have absolutely no idea. Nothing is in my hands. So, I am just going with the flow. I just pray and hope that I am in a good place.
