Grounded, humble, and immensely talented ; Pooja Umashankar is an actress who redefined versatility in Tamil cinema. From playing a visually impaired beggar to a simple biryani shop worker, Pooja embraced roles that many actresses of her time shied away from, even if it meant appearing without makeup or looking “less glamorous” on screen. In doing so, she became a symbol of authenticity and commitment to her craft during the 90s and early 2000s.


A post shared by Mudinjaorucupcoffeee (@mudinjaorucupcoffeee)




In a past interview, Pooja credited director Bala for his unwavering dedication to filmmaking. Reflecting on her iconic role as a visually impaired girl in Naan Kadavul, she humbly remarked, “Bala sir did the hard part, and I did the easy one.” While she initially struggled with the discomfort of wearing special lenses for the character, she adapted quickly and focused on delivering a performance that resonated deeply with audiences.

Her dedication paid off handsomely. Naan Kadavul not only earned critical acclaim but also brought Pooja numerous accolades, including the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Actress (Tamil) and the Tamil Nadu State Film Award for Best Female Character Artiste.

Despite her stellar performances and her ability to embody complex characters, Pooja remains one of the most underrated actresses in Tamil cinema. Her humility shines through when she describes her experience on the sets of Naan Kadavul: “More than me, Arya, Krishnamurthy, Keerthana, cinematographer Arthur Wilson, and art director Krishnamurthy had physical strain. For me, it was more of a happy ride filled with friendships, good food, and fun.”

While many remember her for her groundbreaking performances, her humility and commitment to her roles make her an enduring inspiration in Tamil cinema.

In an industry often swayed by glamour, Pooja Umashankar is a rare gem. A true artiste who let her talent, rather than appearances, speak volumes.

Source / Image Credit : mudinjaorucupcoffeee , United India Exporters