Nivin Pauly urges young women to break free from restrictions, says ‘no distance you can’t reach’

Nivin Pauly had more than a film to talk about when he met students at St. Teresa's College in Kochi. During a promotional event for his upcoming film ‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’, the actor spoke about self-doubt, taking chances and the one decision that eventually changed the course of his career.

He also had a message for the young women in the audience, asking them not to let the restrictions placed on them decide how far they can go.

Looking back at the early days of his career, Nivin recalled reading Paulo Coelho's The Alchemist while recovering from an accident. At the time, he was unsure about attending the audition for ‘Malarvaadi Arts Club’.

He did not know anyone in the film industry and was questioning whether going for the audition would make any difference. But the book helped him take that first step.

“The Alchemist influenced me. At a time when I was doubting myself, wondering whether to go for the audition, thinking I didn't know anyone in the film industry, and questioning if there was even any point in going, that book gave me courage. I took a leap of faith, went to the audition, and participated with confidence. That was the first time I met Vineeth. It was also my very first time facing a camera. I did something, and they selected me. I got that film, and that is why I am able to stand here today," Nivin said.

For him, the decision to simply show up became the beginning of everything that followed.

"When I got back home, I wondered why I, someone who is terrified of getting up on stage, had decided to go for the audition. In 'The Alchemist', the character's life changes the moment he decides to go on a journey. He has no idea where that journey will lead him. It is because I decided to participate in that audition back then that I am standing here today, receiving your love. It was that decision to participate that brought me this far," he added.

'When you doubt yourself, participate'

Nivin then turned his own experience into advice for the students. He acknowledged that fear of failure, criticism and even online trolling can make people hesitate before taking a chance.

"Many situations will arise in life. You will doubt yourself. You will feel afraid. You'll wonder, if I participate, will people mock me or troll me. When such doubts arise, you must make a decision. Participate. It will bring about massive changes in your life. That is something I have learned from my own life," he said.

He also had a word for the teachers at the college, asking them to look beyond academic performance and encourage students who may struggle to find the confidence to step forward.

"Along with being great teachers to the top student in a class, you should be able to become great mentors to every single student in that classroom. Teachers must be able to offer support and inspiration to those who lack the courage to step forward," Nivin said.

The actor also got nostalgic about his own college years, describing them as a phase of life that cannot be recreated later.

"The best moments of a person's life happen during college. You are going through a wonderful phase right now. If there is any time in my life I wish I could go back to, it is my college days. College life is a time you can never get back. Enjoy it and live your college days to the fullest," he told the students.

His strongest message, however, was directed at young women who often find themselves dealing with restrictions over where they can go, what they can wear and when they should return home.

"Knowingly or unknowingly, girls are often restricted. Don't do certain things, don't go to certain places, don't wear certain clothes, come home early. Knowingly or unknowingly, they face restrictions from home, college, and the hostels they stay in. There is no distance you cannot reach, no height you cannot attain, and no obstacle you cannot jump over. Enjoy your life. Work for your peace of mind. Work toward your desires and dreams. No one is going to do anything to stop you. Go forward with courage," Nivin said.

‘Bethlehem Kudumba Unit’, starring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju, is set to reach theatres on August 21, 2026. The movie is directed by Girish AD, who has co-written the film with Kiran Josey.