Yet Another Import From Kerala: Can Newcomer Shaalin Zoya Make It Big In Tamil?

Malayalam film actress Shaalin Zoya, who makes her Tamil debut with upcoming movie Raja Manthiri, says she loves the language and wants to explore the industry to the fullest, but won't sign projects in a hurry.

"I love Tamil films, even though I face a language barrier. As I await the release of 'Raja Manthiri', I'm curious to know how audiences will receive me. When I think about it, I get tensed, more so because I want to explore the industry," Shaalin told IANS.

As a newcomer, she feels she needs to be accepted first.

"Ever since I started working on 'Raja Manthiri', I got quite a few Tamil projects but I didn't sign them because I want to be accepted by audiences here and only then can I think of signing more offers," she explains.

Directed by Usha Krishnan, the film also stars Kalaiyarasan and Kaali Venkat.

"This is an out-and-out entertainer that focuses on the relationship between two brothers, played by Kalai and Venkat," said Shaalin, who plays a bubbly, confident village belle.

Shaalin, who has been paired with Kalaiyarasan, finds him to be very friendly and a supportive co-star.

"When I signed the project, I didn't know anybody from the team. Director Usha came to Cochin and narrated the script, which I really liked and immediately agreed to be a part of it. It was on the sets that I got to know Kalai and his work. I thoroughly enjoyed working with a young team," she said.

When asked about the working experience in a new industry, she said: "Besides the language barrier, there wasn't any major difference on the professional level. Acting part wasn't challenging because I've already worked in about 20 Malayalam films".

Shaalin, who has also directed a short film, says she has plans of helming a feature film in the future.

"I'd love to direct, but the process will take its due course," she said.

V Mathiyalagan and R Ramya have produced Raja Manthiri, which will be released via Auraa Cinemas.

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