Ramya Subramanian has had a defining 2019 with two releases — Game Over and Aadai. Both films featured a female protagonist, and were important films not only in the context of Tamil cinema but also for her, as it helped establish the VJ-turned-actor as a serious performer to watch out for. Popular on social media for her fitness videos, Ramya’s film career is set to hit the big time (She plays one of the lead roles in an upcoming drama, and is also on the verge of signing two big-budget films). But Ramya is excited about something else because she is set to add the title of author to her already brimming resume.
How important has 2019 been for you?
Though I signed Aadai and Game Over at different times, I didn’t know that they would be releasing around the same time. I’m very happy with the response to both films.
Are you ready to make the step up from supporting actor to lead now?
I genuinely believe that there is no bracket as such for an actor, and my priority has always been to pick a role based on how interesting it is rather than basing it on if it’s a lead, cameo or supporting part. I’ve turned down heroine roles because they didn’t do my character justice, but you saw me do a small character in Game Over as it was vital to the story.
Having said that, I am doing a lead role in a social drama film on the lines of Kaaka Muttai next. I’m also in talks for a couple of huge Tamil films. I hope I keep getting opportunities to prove my versatility as an actor.
You made the switch to films quite late into your career...
These days it doesn’t matter at all. Gone are the days when actresses had to be in their early 20s in order to make it in the industry. Even if you see now, a Samantha, Nayanthara or Deepika Padukone are dominating the industries irrespective of their age. Times have changed drastically, and it’s a good thing.
How influential has your fitness journey been in other parts of your life?
It hasn’t influenced or changed anything about my film or television career, but my fitness routine has given me incredible confidence to experiment with my fashion choices. It lets me try out clothes that I used to avoid because I was too conscious of my body. Also, because I have a YouTube page and Instagram, where my followers follow my fitness journey, I make sure I keep at it constantly, reduce my ‘cheat days’ and motivate myself.
What else are you currently working on?
My first book. It shall chronicle not only my experience with fitness but also what I’ve learnt over the last few years — lifestyle tips, new recipes, advice from dietitians and so on. I’ve finished writing it, and now I’m in the process of getting it published. It’s something I’m really excited about!
