Regina Cassandra, who began her career in Tamil cinema, has also made a mark in Hindi films and series, including Rocket Boys and Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga. However, the actor reveals that navigating the industry as a South Indian woman comes with its own set of challenges. In an exclusive conversation with Hindustan Times, Regina discusses stereotypes, unfair casting practices, and her experiences in the industry.
A Long Journey in Films
Regina started her career at the age of nine, featuring in advertisements before making her film debut at 14 with Kanda Naal Mudhal. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “I have been working since I was nine years old. I have done ads, short films, and movies for over 25 years. So, I came in with a certain understanding of how things work in the industry. But being a woman here is not easy, and being a South Indian adds another layer of difficulty.”
North vs. South: Unequal Rules
The actor highlights the disparities between the North and South industries, particularly when it comes to language requirements. “When I audition for Hindi films, my language skills are scrutinised. Can I speak Hindi fluently? How do I sound? Have I worked on my accent? These are constant questions. If I’m playing a South Indian, they allow a slight accent, but I have worked hard to neutralize it,” she shares.
However, Regina points out a stark contrast in the South. “So many North Indian actresses have become leading heroines in Tamil and Telugu cinema, even if they don’t speak the language. Nobody questions whether they can talk in Tamil or not,” she says, emphasizing the bias that exists against South Indian actors in Bollywood.
Losing Roles to the Same Faces
Regina further reveals that she has lost roles to the same actresses in both industries. “I have missed out on so many roles because my Hindi wasn’t considered ‘perfect.’ I understand that I may not fit the role of a Punjabi girl, but then a Punjabi actress plays a South Indian girl, and it’s completely acceptable,” she says. “There have been instances where I was overlooked for a role in the South, only for the same actress to be chosen over me in Bollywood too. So where do I go?”
Regina’s Latest Work
Most recently, Regina appeared in Vidaamuyarchi, co-starring Ajith, Trisha Krishnan, and Arjun Sarja. Directed by Magizh Thirumeni, the film received positive reviews but saw a lukewarm box-office response, earning just over ₹100 crore since its release on February 6. Up next, Regina will be seen alongside Sunny Deol in Jaat.