Months after facing online criticism for expressing support for the student protests in Delhi, Vismaya Mohanlal has opened up about living in the public eye, saying she has never felt that her life was constantly “under a microscope” despite being the daughter of Malayalam superstar Mohanlal.
Speaking in an interview with Galatta Plus, Vismaya reflected on the expectations that come with belonging to one of Malayalam cinema’s most well-known families. The conversation also revisited the controversy surrounding an Instagram Story she shared in support of the Delhi student protests, in which she questioned whether a democratic country should respond to its own citizens in such a manner. The post had drawn mixed reactions, including criticism and online trolling.
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Responding to a question about whether she ever felt that her life was constantly being watched or judged, Vismaya said she had not personally experienced that level of public scrutiny. She explained that she spent much of her life outside Kerala, particularly in Ooty, and believes that distance from the state’s public spotlight allowed her to grow up without feeling constantly observed.
At the same time, Vismaya acknowledged that being Mohanlal’s daughter naturally comes with certain expectations and public attention. She said people’s opinions about her father—whether positive or negative—often extend to her as well. However, she added that she has never considered it a burden and has largely stayed away from the negativity associated with social media by avoiding reading online comments.
Reflecting on her personal experiences, Vismaya said the only noticeable impact of her public identity has been being recognised by people while travelling with her father, adding that she has otherwise not had any unpleasant encounters.
She also revealed that she discussed the issue with her brother, Pranav Mohanlal, who advised her that every public statement carries consequences. According to Vismaya, one of her close friends had also reminded her that, because of her family background, she would need to be more mindful before expressing her views publicly, as her words are likely to attract greater attention.
On the professional front, Vismaya is preparing to make her acting debut with director Jude Anthany Joseph’s upcoming film Thudakkam. The film is scheduled to release in theatres on August 7 and marks the beginning of a new chapter in her journey in Malayalam cinema.
With her candid remarks, Vismaya has offered a personal perspective on balancing individuality with the expectations that come with belonging to one of the industry’s most celebrated families, while also looking ahead to her debut as an actor.
