Padmapriya defends ageing Malayalam superstars

Feb 6, 2007 IANS

Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 6 (IANS) Young southern Indian actress Padmapriya who has acted with three of Kerala's 40-plus superstars - Mammootty, Mohanlal and Suresh Gopi - says age is not an impediment for actors.

"These superstars handle their characters so well and they are sensible and sensitive actors. Every fruit has its own flavour and an apple cannot replace an orange," the actress told reporters here.

"Amitabh Bachachan is past 65 and still the most sought after star in Bollywood. This is true in Hollywood and the Malayalam film industry," she added.

Last week Padmapriya won the Atlas Film Critics' best actress award for her performance in two Malayalam films - "Karuthapakshigal" and "Yes Your Honour".

On her forthcoming projects, the actress said she has a film opposite Suresh Gopi to be directed by Shaji Kailas.

"The shooting for the film with Mohanlal, 'Paradeshi', is over and it should be a great film. Likewise, I also have a few Tamil films signed up," said Padmapriya, who began her career with Kannada films while pursuing an MBA degree.

Padmapriya, who is in her 20s, has acted with the 50-plus Mammootty and with Mohanlal and Suresh Gopi, both of who are nearing 50.