Officer On Duty star Priyamani on why Malayalam cinema rocks, working with Shah Rukh Khan in Jawan and more

Dubai: “There’s a unity on set—you won’t see big stars isolating themselves in vanity vans. We all eat together, chat, and focus on the craft. The realism in our films—whether it’s natural lighting, background details, or even junior artists—is unparalleled. You watch a scene, and it feels like a real moment from your own home.”

This is National Award-winning Indian actress Priyamani's keen observations about the Malayalam film industry known for their realistic and raw storytelling.

Its appeal lies in no over-the-top glamour, no unnecessary frills, and just pure storytelling magic. Her latest Malayalam-language film, Officer On Duty, out in the UAE cinemas now is a solid testament to her beliefs. Starring Kunchacko Boban as a troubled police officer, she plays his wife who is dealing with demons from her past too.

Here in an interview over zoom in Dubai, she spills the tea on her career, her long-distance love life, the new season of her hit web series Family Man 3 and why Malayalam cinema just hits different.

Here's her take on ...

“Fingers crossed! It’s not easy, but we make it work. This is the only time I get to spend with him, so I want to make the most of it.”

She and her husband, Mustafa who shuttles between Dubai and the United States, make it a point to watch her films together whenever possible.

“If we’re in the same city when one of my movies releases, we always make sure to watch it together. Otherwise, if it’s released in the US, he makes sure to watch it and gives me his honest feedback.”

“After Season 1 of The Family Man, I received so many messages from women saying they understood what Suchi was going through. Even in Season 2, when Suchi and Srikant go to therapy, people messaged me saying, ‘This is our reality.’ That’s the power of great writing.”

Even in ensemble films like Officer on Duty, she ensures her character holds weight. “Geetha, my character, is headstrong and layered. She plays a crucial role in holding the family together, and I made sure to bring depth to her.”

“There’s a unity on set—you won’t see big stars isolating themselves in vanity vans. We all eat together, chat, and focus on the craft. The realism in our films—whether it’s natural lighting, background details, or even junior artists—is unparalleled. You watch a scene, and it feels like a real moment from your own home.”

This authenticity is what draws her back to Malayalam projects. “You watch a scene and think, ‘Hey, I’ve seen this happen in my own life.’ That’s what sets our films apart.”

“I’m very happy. Mustafa and I make it work despite the distance. We support each other’s careers and make the most of our time together.”

Her selective approach to projects has also allowed her to focus on meaningful work. “I go with my gut. The only difference now is that I feel confident in saying no to projects that don’t resonate with me. My focus has always been quality over quantity.”

“Jawan was a special experience. The moment I heard it would be with Shah Rukh Khan, I knew I had to do it. The six of us girls bonded so well—we even have a WhatsApp group and stay in touch almost daily. We send memes, talk about Jawan, and catch up like family.”

“In Malayalam cinema, it’s all about the story. Even the smallest details—like a junior artist tying a lungi or peeling a banana—feel so authentic. That raw, unfiltered quality is what makes our films special.”

She also takes pride in how Malayalam cinema values teamwork. “There’s no hierarchy on set. No one locks themselves away in their vanity van. Everyone works together, and that creates a real sense of unity.”

“I love my fans, and I always try to accommodate them when they ask for pictures. But sometimes, people cross boundaries—following us around or waiting too long before asking for a photo. If I’m with my family, I just request them to respect my space.”

“I’ve always wanted to do roles that leave a mark. Whether it’s a lead or supporting character, the substance of the role matters most to me.”