How did you react once you were chosen as the lead for 'Never Have I Ever'?
Absolutely surreal because I didn't know how my life would be. When I found out that I got the role, in my mind I was asking myself "Okay, so what's next?" but I don't think I'll ever stop asking myself that question!
Landing a Netflix Original Series is not easy; how do you feel about the response?
The response is great! It's amazing to see how many people are resonating and relating to the show's characters and events. I'm glad that 'Never Have I Ever' can make even one person just feel seen because that's what matters.
Let's talk about Mindy Kaling...
Mindy is an amazing mentor and honestly I couldn't ask for a better boss, whom I can also call my friend. She was always on-set not only to help me and the rest of the cast figure out the characters that we were playing but also let us have our own individuality throughout filming the show. On-set we were truly a family thanks to the leadership of Mindy and Lang who built a team that supported each other.
How much 'Devi' are you in real life?
When I was in high school I did really well in my classes and also participated in as many clubs as I could just like Devi. That being said, I was nowhere near as boy crazy or as confused about my identity.
Paxton or Ben - who would you have preferred in real life?
Honestly neither. Both characters need to work on themselves before getting into a relationship!
There are things to learn and unlearn from the character of Devi. Has Devi helped Maitreyi in the way she sees her life at all?
I'd like to think I wouldn't have made the same mistakes as Devi but that being said, I think she has taught me and many others that it is okay to make mistakes and be imperfect. I feel that nowadays, people have pressure to be the perfect friend/daughter/etc. Though when watching Devi, you realize she is far from perfect, you're still rooting for her!
What do you want to say to someone who is going through the same as Devi?
To embrace who you are on your own terms and grow to love yourself. You are stuck with yourself for the rest of your life so why not be your own best-friend and accept yourself for who you are. You're going to be just fine.
Tamil
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