Yasmin Nadiah

 ‘The Sparkle Queen’ of the Malaysian film industry is all set to leave a spark in every role given. This beautiful icon is nothing but an immense blessing and inspiration wherever she goes.

By – Shamrin Yaseer

Yasmin Nadiah considered one of the most prominent actresses in the Malaysian Tamil entertainment industry was born in a humble family with dreams to be a successful entrepreneur and emerge as a women empowerment icon. She realized that a woman’s pride and asset at any age would be her fitness and devoted herself in martial art. As a young woman who was ready to explore every opportunities and learn through experience, she had accepted the offers to become an actress and given her fullest commitment at every stage.

Being able to entertain and evolve as an actress had always been satisfying and heartwarming as it allows how to spread positivity, keeps her grounded, continue to learn from experts, explore and inspire.

She believes that a success of an artist does not lie in the number of projects or hits they have given, but the experience of art they have offered sincerely from their heart to entertain and inspire the audience.

1. What made you to become an actress?

Well acting was not my dream or ambition since young. But I always believed that passion is not built in but to be searched and found. So, I was actively exploring.

I was introduced to this industry by a very good friend of mine to act along in a music video to replace the main lead. My dad wasn’t so happy about me getting into the industry. So it was a little tough to pursue acting. I completed my degree in Electronics & Electrical Engineering and got another chance in a tele series, introduced by KK Khanna to work alongside senior actors like Sasitharan K Rajoo, Agho, Anu , Gobbi and KS Maniam uncle. I grabbed the opportunity. Slowly I explored the industry, spoke to many, attended events, made good mentors and later on I realized this is where my passion lies at and it kept me going.

I took it as a responsibility and consciously made effort to inspire and I love how we could make some changes, sometimes very small changes to make the world a better place.

2. How would you describe the Malaysian film industry?

Malaysian film industry is definitely getting bigger and better in many ways. We had to compete mainly with the much experienced and advanced contents from India and other countries. But I love how some passionate Malaysian film makers had changed the whole scene into an equally competitive space and I would like to take this opportunity to thank and congratulate them.

There are plenty of opportunities given now by our local channels for our local products. Honestly, breaking into the industry as a main lead was quite challenging. But I believe I have a lot to work on, will continuously improve, invest in learning and ensure to make justice to the industry and the trust on me. It is of course a shared responsibility of everyone in the industry so that we can be given more air time and finance by channels.

3. Being an actress and a model can be both challenging and rewarding. In what ways has this experience changed you?

I have never considered myself as a model. Being a model requires certain skills, effort and sacrifice. A strict diet for instance, being a foodie I can’t imagine myself being on a strict diet, lol.

As an actress, the major challenge is to sustain and getting a challenging role. Every film maker has his or her own idea and imagination and fitting aptly into it and doing justice to it is the major challenge. And the reward is obviously, the love, support and recognition that would mould us as a responsible personality. Today, I’m extremely conscious in not saying or doing anything that could badly influence my followers and well-wishers, and I consider that a blessing.

4. What would you tell to your 20-year-old self?

Probably to build my self-esteem, let go of my insecurities and be more extroverted as they held me back from learning and exploring many important lessons in life.

5. What is the impact of your love life in your journey?

A very important one I would say! I’m blessed to receive immense love and blessings from many who love my partner and his work too. There were difficult times but we strongly went pass the phase, focusing on our careers now and supporting each other stronger than ever.

6. There are several young girls who look up to you. What is that one thing you would always say to them?

It has been 2 tough years for me as I had to go through a lot of mental issues. I am back on track and be able to smile now. It is all because of them, young girls, boys, some women/men. The amount of love they showed me, some heartwarming notes and posts that always made me smile and built me as a stronger person! The one thing I would say to them, thank you so much for the love. Always stand right by you, trust your instincts, say nice things to people, give your 100% in whatever you pursue, keep learning, live well and love well!

7. As a black belt holder in martial arts do you encourage women to take up this?

I would like to break the misconception that a woman’s body language and behavior becomes masculine, once they learn a martial art.

This is a very wrong stereotype. I know many beauty queens, who are amazing in martial art. It’s time to drop that mindset. In fact, it builds self-confidence and is important to protect them when necessary.

“I had a very strong circle of friends, who took care of me and consoled me when I was not myself. A few names I owe my heartiest thanks to would be, obviously Appa, amma, Mugen and his family,Ajju, Sham, Mastu, Rayyan, Kumanan, sister Deepa, Naaraayini, Sasi Benjo, Ruvela, Jay, Dinnesh Roy, sister Janet and a good old friend.”