Parvathy Thiruvothu Celebrates Vishu in Mumbai with Traditional Kerala Sadhya
This Vishu, the Malayalam New Year, holds special significance for actress Parvathy Thiruvothu, celebrated for her roles in films like Bangalore Days and Uttama Villain. After relocating to Mumbai last December, she is observing the festival in her new home, inviting us into her elegantly styled Bandra residence with European-inspired interiors. Parvathy personally served a lavish sadhya, a traditional Kerala vegetarian feast presented on a banana leaf, featuring dishes from aviyal and sambar to pachadi, culminating in payasam for dessert. The meal offered a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors, embodying the essence of Kerala culinary traditions.
Embracing Kerala Cuisine and Family Traditions
Parvathy shares her deep connection to Kerala food, stating, "In Trivandrum, the first thing you reach for is parippu, or dal, enjoyed with rice and a touch of ghee." She highlights staples like aviyal, a mix of vegetables with coconut, and pachadi, a yogurt-based relish adding tanginess. "I love my Kerala rice—it feeds my soul and brings me joy, whether morning, afternoon, or night," she adds, emphasizing how these dishes evoke memories of home and comfort.
Navigating Loneliness and Personal Growth in Mumbai
Reflecting on her transition to Mumbai, Parvathy notes the contrast with her upbringing in Kerala. "Back home, my parents always shared kitchen duties, a partnership I grew up witnessing. Doing things alone here can feel lonely," she admits. However, she views this as a new experience, saying, "While I miss celebrating with my parents, this feels like a close second—I'm coming out of my shell." She emphasizes intentional living, avoiding surface-level interactions and focusing on meaningful connections, whether sharing meals or meeting friends in person.
Finding Rhythm in Mumbai's Fast-Paced Environment
Discussing her move to Mumbai, Parvathy describes the city's collaborative energy. "Kerala has a jazz-like tempo, while Mumbai feels like hip-hop on steroids. You must find your own rhythm here," she explains. She stresses the importance of pausing to choose what adds value to life, rather than following popular trends. This mindset helps her navigate the bustling film industry and maintain balance in her personal and professional endeavors.
Evolution of Courage and Career in Cinema
With 20 years in cinema, primarily in Malayalam and Tamil films, Parvathy is now open to Hindi cinema opportunities. "I started at 17, fearless and bold, but courage evolves with wisdom about the industry's harshness," she reflects. She takes pride in her craft and meaningful friendships, noting, "Last year, I felt old approaching 20 years, but earlier this year, I felt like an infant again. You can start afresh at any stage." This perspective underscores her resilience and ongoing journey in the entertainment world.
