From ramp walks to powerful performances, Priyanka Kumar is blooming into her truest self. In this intimate cover story, she opens up about growth, grit, gratitude, and finding strength in softness.
You’re shooting for Fashion Mongers’ cover in the concept of “Bloom.” What does this concept mean to you personally?
Bloom feels very personal to me. Bloom means growth—that is, growing into who you are meant to be, soft and beautiful.
When I started my journey in television, my only focus was to learn and give my best. I never knew where life would take me. I just kept moving forward.
Today, I feel I am stepping into the best version of myself. Bloom reminds me that success and growth do not happen overnight. There are struggles and challenges we all must face. That’s why this concept resonates so deeply with me.
You’ve portrayed Bhoomi in Doora Terayana, where the story suggests that love between two strong individuals doesn’t always guarantee happiness. How did playing this role influence your view on relationships?
When I played Bhoomi, it was challenging because she is a mature woman in a five-year relationship, something I personally haven’t experienced.
Initially, I didn’t know how such relationships work in today’s world.
I used to think relationships were about tall, handsome, good-looking men and romantic moments.
But while working on this film, I realized relationships are much deeper than looks and “flower and chocolate” moments. There’s so much more happening beneath the surface.
Thanks to my director and co-star, I learned a lot about emotional depth in relationships.
Tell us about your first narration experience. What did you feel when that opportunity came your way?
I’ve done two films so far—Rudra Garuda Purana and Doora Terayana.
Rudra Garuda Purana was a completely different character, more like a next-door aspiring girl, and I enjoyed it.
But Doora Terayana felt very personal.
When I heard the narration, I connected instantly with the reality of today’s generation.
As an actor, all you want is to connect with the audience. I even got goosebumps during the narration. That was a very special moment for me.
Thinking beyond one industry, how do you see yourself positioning in Indian cinema, especially Tamil films?
I would love to work more in Tamil cinema.
Tamil films are very artistic, and I truly admire that.
I’ve already worked in Tamil, so I don’t feel I have to prove myself or try too hard.
I see myself simply being who I am and giving my best.
What kind of roles excite you the most? Intense dramas, commercial entertainers, or performance-driven cinema?
Performance-driven cinema is my favourite.
It challenges me to do better and pushes me out of my comfort zone.
How do you prepare emotionally and physically for a character?
The director’s guidance helps me a lot.
Beyond that, I observe people around me.
I make my own notes, create a backstory for the character, and think about what new ideas I can bring that align with the director’s vision.
Kannada cinema is evolving rapidly. Where do you see yourself in this new wave?
I honestly don’t know how to answer that in a surface-level way.
I just see myself growing with meaningful cinema and exploring better performances.
Describe Priyanka in three words.
Comfortable.
Simple.
Confident.
Personally, I love wearing boxers with a loose T-shirt and sneakers.
But I also love sarees and traditional attire.
These two extremes define me.
Should fashion be comfortable first or statement-making first?
I’ll choose comfort over anything when it comes to fashion.
Your comfort defines your style.
Is there a fashion trend you love right now?
Honestly, I don’t follow trends.
I create my own style because that’s where comfort begins.
Is there a trend you would never try?
The scarf trend.
I’ve tried it many times, but I don’t think it suits me.
Many can pull it off, but it’s just not my style.
Who inspires your fashion choices?
I’m my own inspiration.
I create my own style and walk my own path of fashion.
What does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is comfort and confidence.
If you’re comfortable and smiling, you can slay any outfit.
I don’t believe in blindly following trends.
What keeps you grounded despite being in the glamour industry?
I stay deeply connected to my roots.
No matter how high I climb, I’ll never forget where I come from.
That keeps me grounded.
Kickboxing and painting are two contrasting worlds. How have they shaped you?
Painting feels genetic because both my parents are good at drawing.
I was always more interested in painting than studies because it gave me happiness and freedom.
Kickboxing started because I needed an outlet for my anger.
Now, it’s about fitness, power, and movement.
I’m enjoying exploring it.
What does kickboxing represent to you beyond sport?
I’ve just started, so I still have a lot to explore.
Right now, I love how powerful I feel when I move and kick.
It makes me feel free and happy.
What is one piece of advice that changed your life?
Stop overthinking.
I think a lot.
Writing down my thoughts and distracting myself through painting or new hobbies helps me.
What are you most grateful for at this stage of your life?
I’m grateful that I have a place to stay.
I thank God every day for my home, food, and the beautiful people around me who motivate and support me.
Your journey wasn’t overnight. Did becoming an actress come easily?
No, it didn’t.
I knew at 12 or 13 that I wanted to see myself on screen.
I started auditioning at 16 or 17, often going alone.
It was a struggle.
Eventually, I became a heroine in a serial, and that’s where it began.
My dream was always the big screen.
It took time, but I’m here now, and I’m grateful.
What excites you about Tamil cinema’s storytelling?
Tamil cinema shows reality beautifully.
It connects deeply with people and their roots.
It allows audiences to see themselves on screen and feel less alone.
I’d love to be part of such storytelling.
s there any Tamil film or character you wish you had done?
No.
I believe what’s meant for me will come to me.
Somewhere, a beautiful project is waiting.
From ramp walks to serial artist to big-screen actress—tell us about your journey.
People used to mock my height.
Since I overthink a lot, I decided to use my height as my strength.
I started ramp modelling at 15.
My dad wasn’t initially happy, but he eventually supported me.
Walking the ramp made me feel powerful.
Every step felt like a lion’s walk.
I truly enjoyed that phase.
What’s your go-to food in Chennai?
Poondu Kuzhambu.
Of course, rasam rice.
I also love Chettinad dishes.
I’ve mostly tried vegetarian food here.
I’m looking forward to exploring more non-vegetarian spots.
Rapid Fire
Sari or Power Suit?
Power suit… but also sari!
Heels or Sneakers?
Sneakers.
Minimal makeup or Bold glam?
Minimal—or no makeup at all.
One word that defines you?
Soft… yet rugged.
A song that instantly puts you in dancing mode?
Rajinikanth sir’s recent title track or songs from Leo.
Go-to snack between shoots?
Savory.
Silver Screen or OTT?
Silver screen.
Dream role?
A powerful fighter in a historical narrative—strong and fierce.
Comfort binge-watch?
Bridgerton and Stranger Things.
Favourite heroes you’d love to act with?
- Kannada – Upendra
- Tamil – Vijay (or Ajith)
- Telugu – Pawan Kalyan
- Malayalam – Tovino Thomas
A film/series that changed your storytelling perspective?
Shaka Hari (Kannada), Echo, and Sarvamaya.
If cinema could spark social change, what issue would you highlight?
(Laughs) I’d rather not get into trouble with that one!
Finally, what does fashion mean to you?
Fashion is about comfort and confidence.
I like wearing something I can carry without worrying about what society thinks.
