In an exclusive and intimate conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, Nayanthara opens up to Anupama Chopra about her journey of over two decades in Indian cinema. The interview, coming on the heels of her Netflix documentary's success and subsequent controversy with her producer and actor Dhanush, sees the 'Lady Superstar' candidly discussing the challenges of being a leading female actor in a male-dominated industry, her experience of facing trolls, and her evolution from an 18-year-old newcomer to one of India's most bankable stars.
The conversation takes a personal turn as Nayanthara shares insights about her marriage to filmmaker Vignesh Shivan, their production house Rowdy Pictures, and their twin boys. She speaks with remarkable honesty about finding unconditional love after believing she never would, making the first move in her relationship, and the importance of speaking up against unfair practices. The interview showcases a different side of the usually private actor, as she discusses everything from her skincare brand to her husband's role as a lyricist who writes songs inspired by their love story.
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00:00 Opening thoughts on successful women facing backlash and speaking up
01:23 Discussion about Netflix documentary 'Beyond the Fairy Tale' and its reception
02:44 Revelation about documentary's viewership numbers
04:06 Nayanthara explains the documentary's intention
05:21 Addressing the controversy with Dhanush
14:05 Discussion about Lady Superstar title and industry backlash
16:43 Her relationship with the 'Lady Superstar' title and asking producers not to use it
24:15 Early career experiences with legendary director Fazil
28:23 Evolution as an actor without formal training
31:03 Working with different generations of superstars
34:32 Past relationship that made her quit cinema temporarily
38:08 Finding unconditional love with Vignesh Shivan
42:18 Their creative partnership and division of work
47:32 Vision for Rowdy Pictures
49:42 Working relationship with directors
59:43 Discussion about Vignesh's vision and entrepreneurial ventures
1:02:11 Vignesh as a lyricist writing songs about their love
1:04:54 Their twin boys and family life
1:13:35 Teaching kindness to their children
1:24:17 Views on women having it all
1:32:20 Future projects and hopes for 2025