"I am willing to act in kissing scenes" - Diya

Diya created a sensation with her debut film Kurumbhu. She got the offer to play opposite Dhanush in Dreams. Both the films bombed miserably, she was termed as a non-starter. After a brief lull, she is back with a striking role in ARV. Udayakumar's Karkka Kasadara with Vikraanth (cousin of actor Vijay) as the hero. With half a dozen films including a Malayalam film on hand, Diya speaks about her life and future plans.

How did you enter into films?
When I was a student of Kalakshethra dance school, I got couple of modeling assignments. Then I was selected as a "Miss Chennai Mega Model 2002". My pictures appeared in all the magazines. Ms. Indra Akkineni, producer of Kurumbhu saw my pictures and offered me the heroine role in Kurumbhu. Though it was not a planned move, I thought, why not I give a try?

How did you accept such intimate scenes in the first film itself?
It was my first film. I was given the outline of the film. My character was not described to me fully. I was not in a position to ask anything since I was a newcomer. Later when we were shooting only I realized that there was a sexual overtone to my character and I had to put up with it.
But I am not against glamour. It should be beautiful and not vulgar. I am selective these days and you will see a different Diya in future films.

You expected so much from Dreams with hot star Dhanush! But it was a b-o disaster! What do have to say about it?
When I signed Dreams, Dhanush was not a big star. He was shooting for Kaadhal Kondain. But due to various problems, the film was released almost two years after its commencement. By that time KK was released and Dhanush became a big star. I wasted two years of my career. I was upset to the core.

Your alleged connections with a liquor baron!
Can you prove it? It is so absurd! Just because I had modeled for a liquor ad, it doesn't mean I know the owner. Model coordinators approach us for assignments and we will work through an ad agency. That’s all!

Will you act in kissing scenes?
If the script demands, I don't mind doing a kissing scene. But if it is thrust for the heck of it, I would put my foot down and will not do it!

Very few actresses in Tamil dub their own voice. You are one among them. What advantage do you see dubbing your own voice?
If I know the language, I can understand my character better and give the right kind of expression. On the other hand, Mumbai girls do not react to the scene properly and they have to depend upon the dubbing artistes to make up their faults.

What kind of roles do you look for?
Ideally speaking, artistes should do all kinds of roles that are offered to them. I want to be identified as an actress who would suit for homely as well as glamour roles.

What are you future films?
Karkka Kasadara has just got released. Kartha with Parthiban, Kodambakkam, where I play a homely girl, Malayalam film Minnal with Prithiviraj. I am getting a few Telugu offers also.