Riya on winning Kerala State TV Awards: The award is a validation that quality work and sincere efforts will always be acknowledged

Winning the Best Actress award at the Kerala State TV Awards, especially on her acting debut, is undoubtedly the perfect career kickstart any talent dreams of. For Riya, however, it wasn’t just a dream come true, but also a well-deserved recognition for her portrayal of the first-ever transman on Indian television. We’ve got Riya sharing her joy about her win, as well as the success of her show Aanpirannol at the Kerala State TV Awards.
"Maybe yes, we all expected the show to be recognized, but since it went off-air almost a year ago, I thought we might not get it. When the announcement came, it was a complete surprise. This award feels like a validation for the artist in me—that no matter how late, quality work and sincere efforts will always be acknowledged," she said.
Reflecting on her decision to take on the role of Apoorva, a transman whose transformation from a woman to a man forms the core of the series, Riya described it as both a challenge and a unique experience.

"Initially, I had my doubts about the role. It's not easy for a girl like me to relate to the emotions of a transman. But I was up for the challenge. Even my family had concerns about whether people would stereotype me for playing a transgender character. However, all those worries started fading once the project began, and I’m sure I gave my all to the character. Now, with not just me but the entire team winning five awards, a recognition from the state is truly a proud moment," Riya added.
While the serial has earned recognition at the state awards, it's undeniable that it didn’t capture much attention from viewers. However, Riya shared that the show has fulfilled its purpose by sparking important conversations among families.
"I don’t think getting 'celebrated' is the criteria for success. We made history by addressing a topic that had never been explored on television. We were extremely careful with every dialogue and shot, ensuring that nothing crossed the line of sensitivity. Now, seeing the award committee acknowledge the quality of the show makes us incredibly proud of our efforts. The show sparked important discussions in households about the lives of transgender people and the struggles they face. We were able to introduce, educate, and normalize many things, and I think that was the real celebration we were hoping for. Personally, I enjoyed every bit of the process. Over the two years of the project, I had to maintain my physique. I even used to shave my sideburns, thinking it might enhance my character’s look. Everything about the show was special," she shared.

For those who may not know, it’s been a couple of years since the Kerala State TV Awards recognized a TV serial in the Best TV Serial category. Riya shared that this win could also help challenge some of the stereotypes surrounding Malayalam serials.
"I faced a lot of criticism when I decided to make my debut with a TV serial, especially one about a transgender character. Many questioned why I was getting into serials and even called TV serials 'toxic.' But when the award was announced, I saw a sudden shift in their attitude. The same people who once demeaned Malayalam serials now say it has a lot more scope, and quality work will always be recognized. I’m thoroughly enjoying that change in perspective," she said.