Unlike most of her peers, Amaran actor Sai Pallavi has carved out a distinct space for herself by embracing her natural beauty on screen. Ever since her breakthrough Malayalam debut Premam, the actor has consistently appeared without makeup, a decision she describes as both intentional and liberating.
Pallavi revealed that while she has experimented with makeup at her directors’ request, it never became a regular part of her craft. During a 2023 interview with Film Companion, she explained that makeup was often tried during photoshoots or test runs, but eventually set aside. “For Premam and the films that came after, I did put on makeup during the photoshoots or test shoots before we start shooting. Most of the directors would tell me to try
makeup, but later on, would say, we like you the way you are,” she shared.
The actor emphasized that what truly transforms her on screen is not cosmetics but the strength of the character she portrays. “I have realised that in cinema, at least, you don’t need to have a very different attire or hairdo. It does help, but how well-written a character is will show you in a very different shade. You look different in every film and you have an opportunity to bring out different emotions which makes you look like a different person,” Pallavi said.
At 32, Pallavi admits she has little understanding of what it feels like to rely on makeup, but stresses that her choice is rooted in comfort and confidence. “I think for the person I am, I don’t know how the other side will feel. Maybe, there is a lot of pressure. I am not saying that makeup doesn’t help. If it makes you feel confident, you should do it. I feel confident this way and think I’m doing fine (laughs),” she added.
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Makeup artist Shivani Talla of Ruhvani’s Qala by Shivani highlights how the approach to makeup is deeply personal and varies widely. She likens it to an art form, saying, “Like a painter uses colours and strokes to express feelings, makeup lets you express your personality and mood. It’s a way to show the world who you are and how you feel on any day. It uplifts your spirits and keeps you active.”
For Talla, the role of makeup extends beyond aesthetics—it becomes a tool for self-expression and empowerment. “According to her, makeup helps boost an individual’s confidence, which can, in turn, help them present themselves more effectively to others. It may also be because makeup reflects personal style and self-care,” she explained.