Actor Hansika Motwani feels the regional films tag only widens the gap between the diverse content being churned out in the Indian entertainment industry. “I have observed that the concept of ‘regional’ movies exists only in our country, the world always perceives our work as ‘Indian movies’. Now, especially after the remarkable feat of certain movies from the South, the scenario has changed completely. The pan-India culture encapsulating the collaboration of actors and technicians across the country has opened up a new market,” Motwani says.

The 30-year-old points out the trend of remakes to show how content always bridged the gap between regions. “Even before this culture (of pan-India films) popped up, there has always been a mutual exchange among the regional industries through remakes. When an idea, concept or story gets a phenomenal response, it eventually gets a remake. Today, it’s nice to see that people have started accepting the movies from every region. It’s a good sign, as it escalates the stature of Indian cinema on the global map,” mentions the actor, who actively works in Tamil as well as Telugu movies.

From Hindi projects such as Shaka Laka Boom Boom and Koi... Mil Gaya (2003), and Tamil movies such as Engeyum Kadhal (2011) and Oru Kal Oru Kannadi (2012) to Telugu projects such as Luckunnodu and Goutham Nanda (both 2017), the transition from Hindi to other languages was smooth for Motwani.

“Every industry, be it Hindi or other regional domains, has always given support and respect to female actors. I have always experienced so much respect, love and support from every industry. From being a child artiste to female lead, I haven’t experienced any stereotypes or prejudices,” the actor concludes.