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New Delhi: With Thalapathy Vijay’s Jana Nayagan finally set to release in theatres on July 23 after facing delays, censor issues and piracy challenges, Priyamani looks back on the film’s journey. In an exclusive conversation with News9 Digital, she opens up about Vijay‘s transition from actor to Chief Minister, her admiration for Madhavan, and why Paruthiveeran remains a turning point in her career.

Q. While you were shooting with Vijay, he was an actor, and today he is the Chief Minister. How do you look at him? What is that one difference between an actor and a politician?

Priyamani: Better late than never. He was born to be a leader. I am very happy for sir. He is doing a great job as the CM of Tamil Nadu. Onwards and upwards only for him. He has always cared about the people.

Q. Do you think his decision to quit cinema was wise?

Priyamani: As a fan of his, not really. One can only hope he comes back to doing movies, but deep down we all know he is doing what he loves, and that is giving back to people the best way he knows.

Q. Lately there has been a debate over the success of women-centric cinema. An Alpha fails but Samantha’s film crosses the ₹100 crore mark. Your take on it?

Priyamani: Irrespective of the outcome, I am happy that women are in the forefront and leading the cinema. People should encourage it more and I am sure there will be more women-led movies in the future.

Q. There is another interesting film with Madhavan, GDN. Tell me about working with him.

Priyamani: I have always wanted to work with Mr Madhavan, but for some reason the dates had not worked out. Then we got together for a TVC which did really well and people liked our pairing. I thank the stars that I got to work with him on GDN, a project which is very close to all our hearts. Maddy is pure magic on screen. Can’t wait for the people to witness him as GDN.

Q. Which is that one film that changed everything for you?

Priyamani: That is a tough question. All movies have changed me in different ways, but I think it was Paruthiveeran that sort of gave me a longer and better run in all the industries. It was onwards and upwards from there for me.