A first-timer couldn’t have asked for a better launch pad — a film directed by Bhoopathy Pandian, with Vishal as co-star, and produced by Michael Rayappan ( Nadodigal ). Best of all, ‘Action King’ Arjun for father. For Aishwarya Arjun, it was not a planned entry into films.
Arjun says, “She had just completed her education here and abroad when an offer came from family friend and well-wisher G.K. Reddy, actor Vishal’s father. I left it to Aishwarya to decide. After she listened to the script, I think she got interested, and that’s how Pattathu Yaanai happened.”
A seasoned actor’s daughter, Aishwarya didn’t feel the need to study the art. “I attended a month’s workshop for the role and easily slipped into the character; we have already done a 15-day schedule. I have known Vishal since childhood as both our fathers are close friends. Therefore, there was comfort on the sets,” says Aishwarya.
Denying apprehensions about his daughter entering films, Arjun says, “Good and bad prevails everywhere. Our life and future depends on how we conduct ourselves. After all, it is this industry that has provided me with my livelihood. It is with a lot of pride and respect for the industry that I am introducing my daughter to films.”
What’s Aishwarya looking to achieve?
“Till recently, I was not aware this was what I wanted to do. But, subconsciously the thought must have been there since childhood. When I listened to the script, everything sort of fell in place and things became a lot more clear. Every person wants to create a name in any given field. I want to be known as a talented actor, and last long. I also want to enjoy every moment in the industry,” says Aishwarya.
Any favourite directors she would like to act under? Says Aishwarya, “My dad, of course!”