Priya Prakash Varrier: From "Wink Girl" to Pan-Indian Actress

Priya Prakash Varrier, a name that became synonymous with a viral sensation, has successfully transitioned from an internet phenomenon to an emerging actress in the Indian film industry. Born on October 28, 1999, in Punkunnam, Kerala, she gained national fame overnight with a single, expressive wink. This biography and filmography explore her rapid rise to stardom and her journey through various film industries.

The Viral Sensation: Oru Adaar Love (2019)

Priya Prakash Varrier's life changed dramatically in 2018 when a 28-second clip from the song "Manikya Malaraya Poovi" from her debut film, Oru Adaar Love, went viral. Her innocent flirtatious wink and eyebrow dance captivated millions, leading to an unprecedented level of internet fame. She was declared the "most searched-for personality" on Google in India in 2018. The immense hype surrounding her led to the film being released in multiple languages, including Telugu as Lovers Day and Kannada as Kirik Love Story. Despite the film's mixed reviews, her performance cemented her place in the public consciousness.

 

Expanding Horizons: Filmography and Career

Following her viral fame, Priya Prakash Varrier has actively worked to build a diverse filmography across different languages. While her initial film was a romantic drama, she has since ventured into various genres, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Her filmography includes projects in Malayalam, Telugu, and Hindi, highlighting her ambition to become a pan-Indian star. She made her Telugu debut in Check (2021) and later appeared in Yaariyan 2 (2023), her first Hindi film. Her recent work includes the Malayalam film Mandakini (2024), and the Tamil film Good Bad Ugly (2025) with Ajith Kumar, a role that received positive reception. She is also set to star in the Kannada film Vishnu Priya (2025), further expanding her reach.

Her journey, however, has not been without its challenges. Her recent uncredited cameo in the film Param Sundari as a background extra sparked an online debate, with fans expressing dismay and surprise at her minor role. Despite this, Priya continues to work on a variety of projects, including the upcoming Hindi films 3 Monkeys and Love Hackers, as she forges her path in the competitive world of cinema.