Choosing Creativity: Malavika Mohanan on Being Selective in Bollywood and Beyond
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In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema, Malavika Mohanan has emerged as a talent who refuses to be boxed into a single industry. While she is currently riding a wave of massive success in South Indian cinema—most notably with the highly anticipated The Raja Saab opposite Prabhas—many fans have wondered why her appearances in Hindi films have been relatively sparse since her debut.
In a candid reflection on her journey, Malavika recently shared the philosophy behind her career choices, emphasizing that for her, the script will always be king, regardless of the language it is written in.
A Critically Acclaimed Start: Beyond the Clouds
Malavika Mohanan’s entry into the Hindi film industry was anything but conventional. In 2017, she starred in Majid Majidi’s Beyond the Clouds, a gritty, emotionally charged drama that showcased her range as a serious performer. While such a high-profile debut usually leads to a flurry of mainstream Bollywood projects, Malavika took a different path.
She admits that while the offers from Mumbai were plentiful, she wasn't looking to simply "fill a slot" in a big-budget production. Instead, she chose to wait for characters that offered the same level of creative stimulation as her debut.

Why Creative Instinct Trumps Industry Status
Addressing her limited Hindi filmography, Malavika explained that her decision-making process is deeply intuitive. She isn't swayed by the "size" of a film or the "status" of an industry.
"After 'Beyond the Clouds', I did receive a lot of Hindi film offers, but I’ve been very choosy," she shared. "Even if there’s a big Hindi film, if I connect more with an interesting script from another industry, I’ll go with what feels right to me."
For Malavika, the thrill of a complex character in a Malayalam or Tamil film—like her work in Master or Hridayapoorvam—far outweighs the lure of a generic role in a Hindi blockbuster. This selective approach has allowed her to build a diverse portfolio that resonates with audiences across the country.
Breaking the "Regional vs. National" Barrier
One of the most refreshing aspects of Malavika’s perspective is her refusal to view Bollywood as the "ultimate goal" for an Indian actor. In an era where "Pan-India" is the new buzzword, she views all industries as equal platforms for storytelling.
She believes that:
Scripts over Stardom: A compelling narrative is more important than the language.
Intuition is Key: She trusts her gut feeling when reading a screenplay.
Equality in Art: No single industry is superior to another; they each offer unique creative flavors.
Looking Ahead: The Raja Saab and More
Her current focus remains on projects that push her boundaries. Starring in The Raja Saab alongside Prabhas is a testament to her standing in the industry. The film allows her to explore a commercial space while still bringing her unique flair to the screen. While she expresses a genuine desire to do more Hindi films, she is adamant that she will only sign on the dotted line if the role "excites her creatively."
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