Elli AvrRam’s New Chapter” – A deep dive into her Marathi debut with Ilu Ilu 1998 and her journey in Indian cinema exclusive cover story.
How do you balance your personal life with the demands of your career?
It’s not always easy, but I’ve learned to find harmony by setting boundaries. When I’m working, I give it my all, but I make sure to prioritize my “me time” and connect with my family and friends. They’re my safe space, and spending time with them keeps me centered amidst all the chaos.
Your journey from being an outsider to becoming a beloved name in Indian cinema is inspiring. What kept you motivated during tough times?
Honestly, there were moments when it felt overwhelming,and I just wanted to give up. But my love for India and the stories that are created over here always pulled me through. I’ve also kept reminding myself why I started this journey—to live my dream. And, of course, the love and encouragement from fans have been my biggest strength.
What is your favorite way to unwind after a hectic schedule?
Unwinding for me is all about finding peace in the little joys of life. I absolutely love spending time with my boys—my two cats. They have this magical way of calming me down with their cuddles and playful energy. Apart from that, meditation and a good sleep are my go-to ways to recharge and feel refreshed.
Can you share a bit about a life lesson or philosophy that guides you?
One thing I live by is to embrace life as it comes. Challenges are inevitable, but they teach us resilience and shape us into who we are. I’ve learned to trust the process, let go of things I can’t control, and focus on staying true to myself.
What does a perfect day off look like for you?
A perfect day off for me is all about self-care. It would be a mix of resting, working out and just taking time to focus on myself. And, of course, spending more time with my boys—my two cats. They make everything so much better, haha!
How do you stay grounded and connected to your roots?
I think it’s so important to stay close to where you come from. For me, staying connected with my family and visiting my hometown reminds me of my journey and how far I’ve come. It keeps me humble and grateful. Plus, I make sure to reflect and stay present—I think that’s what truly keeps me grounded.
Can you tell us about your upcoming projects? What should your fans look forward to?
Apart from my Marathi debut, There’s so much exciting stuff in the works right now! I can’t reveal too much, but I’m exploring new territories, and I’m absolutely thrilled about what’s coming up. It’s a mix of things I’ve always wanted to do, and I can’t wait for everyone to see it all come to life. Stay tuned—there are some surprises I think my fans will love!
How do you think the industry has evolved since you started your journey?
It’s changed beautifully. There’s so much more space for diverse stories and characters now, and I love that people are open to experimenting. The digital boom has also opened up so many new opportunities for storytelling—it’s really exciting to be a part of this evolving landscape.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone aspiring to be in the film industry?
This industry is magical, but it’s also demanding. My advice would be to work hard, stay consistent, and be patient. There will be ups and downs, but if you truly love what you do, it will all be worth it. And most importantly, never lose yourself in the process—stay authentic.
Which directors or actors would you love to work with in the future?
There are so many talented people I look up to! I’d love to work with Zoya Akhtar—her storytelling is so captivating.And ofcourse with my dream director Sanjay Leela Bhansali sir who made me fall deeply in love with bollywood cinema.
And sharing screen space with Shah Rukh Khan would be a dream come true. He’s such a huge Icon! And the only Khan I haven’t worked with yet 🙂
“Ilu Ilu 1998” marks your debut in Marathi cinema. What drew you to this project, and how has the experience been working in a new language?
The script really moved me—it’s such a heartfelt story, and my character had so much depth. Learning Marathi was definitely a challenge, but I love pushing my boundaries and I am so happy and proud that I dubbed in Marathi myself. It is a feather in my hat in my Acting career. The team was so supportive, and it’s been an enriching experience that I’ll cherish forever.
Can you tell us more about your character, Ms. Pinto, and what aspects of her personality resonated with you?
Ms. Pinto is a very simple dignified character, strong – independent, but also deeply emotional. What I resonated with most was her resilience. She’s someone who faces her challenges head-on, and there’s a certain vulnerability about her that felt very real to me.
You’ve worked in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and now Marathi. How has this multilingual journey influenced your acting skills and career choices?
It’s been an incredible learning curve. Acting in different languages pushes you to step out of your comfort zone and connect with stories in unique ways. It’s also made me more aware of how universal emotions are, regardless of language.
Do you have a daily routine or ritual that helps you recharge and stay balanced?
Yes, I do! I start my day with meditation—it helps me clear my mind and focus. I also take time for self-analyzing, which keeps me grounded and aware of my thoughts and emotions. And I make it a point to squeeze in some physical activity, whether it’s Pilates or a good smash session at the gym—it’s the best way to release stress and feel energized.
What’s one thing your fans would be surprised to know about you?
I think they’d be surprised to know that I’m a bit of an introvert at heart! I love my moments of solitude and can happily spend an entire day by myself, just unwinding. Oh, and I’m also obsessed with making chai—like a proper desi chai. I just love it, love making it, and having it!