Actress Priya Mani Raj Reveals her Decision to Refrain from Onscreen Kissing Scenes After Marriage

Priya Mani Raj, the acclaimed Indian actress, marks a significant milestone in her career as she completes two decades in the film industry. Since her debut in the Telugu film “Evare Atagaadu” in 2003, she has captivated audiences with her powerful performances in notable films like “Thirakkatha” (2008), “Raavanan” (2010), “Chaarulatha” (2012), and her recent success in the web series “The Family Man.” Her outstanding talent and dedication earned her the prestigious National Film Award for Best Actress for her role in the Tamil romantic drama “Paruthiveeran” (2007). Additionally, her memorable dance number in the Shah Rukh Khan starrer comedy film “Chennai Express” (2013) brought her widespread recognition.

Throughout her illustrious career, Priya Mani Raj has encountered various challenges and triumphs. Today, as an established actor, her priorities have undergone a significant transformation. In an exclusive conversation with News18, she opens up about her newfound priorities and reveals her biggest deal-breaker. Priya expresses her firm decision not to engage in onscreen kissing scenes, driven by personal reasons and her commitment to her marriage.

“I won’t kiss onscreen. That would be a no for me. I know it’s just a role and it’s my job, but on a personal note, I won’t be comfortable if I have to kiss another man onscreen, simply because I have to be answerable to my husband,” she candidly shares.

Following her marriage to Mustafa Raj in August 2017, Priya Mani Raj consciously chose to abstain from kissing scenes with her co-stars in films or shows. She explains, “I feel it’s a responsibility from my end. Even when we were dating, I never received any role that required me to kiss somebody, and if I did, I would express my discomfort.”

Recalling an incident during a shoot that involved an intimate scene, Priya narrates how she skillfully managed to navigate the situation. She recalls, “There was an instance recently when I was working on a web show called ‘His Story,’ where my character’s husband is gay. In that show, I had to do a make-out scene with Satyadeep (Mishra; actor). When the story was narrated to me, I made it very clear that it should be stated in my contract that I’m not going to kiss or engage in intimate scenes onscreen.”

Priya further explains, “I’m not comfortable with anything more than a kiss on the cheek. Many projects came my way that contained such scenes, and I communicated my discomfort with them.”

The 39-year-old actress emphasizes that this decision is entirely her own, driven by her deep respect for her family. She states, “I know that both sides of my family will watch any project I’m involved in when it is released. They understand that it’s my profession, but I don’t want them to cringe. I don’t want them to think, ‘Why is my daughter-in-law doing this even after marriage? Why is somebody else putting their hands on her?’ They may not voice it, but it’s my personal choice.”

Priya Mani Raj’s stance on refraining from onscreen kissing scenes showcases her commitment to her family values and personal boundaries. As she continues to leave an indelible mark on the film industry, she sets an example of making choices aligned with her principles and prioritizing her comfort and happiness.

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