Language is not a barrier for me, says Arthana Binu

Arthana Binu, the young actress from Thiruvananthapuram, just returned to Malayalam after a gap with the Tovino Thomas-starrer Anveshippin Kandethum. The actress, who has also worked in the other south industries, is currently filming an as-yet-untitled Telugu film, in which Tamil actor Vetri is making his Telugu debut. The actress spoke to us about her upcoming projects and how she plans to continue studying to broaden her outlook. Excerpts…
‘Anveshippin Kandethum came as a surprise’
I took a small break to study in Canada. My first film after returning was Tamil film Vasco Da Gama with Nakkul, but Anveshippin Kandethum released first. I gave a look test and later came to know that Scriptwriter Jinu Abraham, who had seen me in a film suggested my name. I don’t get many offers from Malayalam, so when the casting director called, I was very excited.
'Fairly fluent in Telugu now’
When I did my first other language project, which was in Telugu, I was lost. I didn’t understand Telugu. I had not even travelled out of Kerala too much. Travelling for the audition was probably my first time going that far. But once I reached the set, things changed. I had this new acting job and I settled in. I started trying to talk in Telugu and now I can speak well, albeit with small errors. I might dub for my current film.

'I will keep on studying'
I like taking gaps to study. I am not a studious person, but when my mindset starts stagnating, I find something new to learn and explore. I get a different perspective which is motivating. My topics vary, from social work to journalism and also a counselling psychology diploma.
A Thiruvananthapuram girl at heart
Having grown up in the state-capital, Arthana is still based out of the city. She says, “I love hanging out in Kanakakunnu. I like going to our beaches, be it Kovalam or Shanghumugham.” Ask about her favourite eateries and she can’t drop just one name. “I am a big foodie. I run around the city and find all the newly opened places (laughs),” she says. That said, she has one favourite place in the city. “No matter how many wonderful places we have here, my favourite is still my home. I just want to huddle in my room,” she adds.