Mumbai: Priyamani isn’t holding back. ‘The Family Man’ (2019-2025) actor has called out the entertainment industry for obsessing over the term “pan-India actor,” saying it divides rather than celebrates talent.

“I think we should stop using the term pan-India,” said Priyamani. “We’re all Indian at the end of the day. What is this pan-India? I don’t understand. You get work in other industries and that’s great — but you don’t call someone from Bollywood a ‘regional actor’ when they come to the South.”

The 41-year-old, who has worked across languages and platforms, questioned the sudden urge to label performers based on geography.

“For decades, actors like Kamal Haasan, Rajinikanth, Prakash Raj, and Dhanush have done multilingual films. They were simply called Indian actors — not ‘pan-India’ stars. This new obsession with the term is just funny,” she added with a laugh.

However, her fiery takes didn’t stop there. Talking about how audiences have become “oversensitive,” Priyamani said,

“It’s okay to have opinions, but don’t overanalyze or try to influence others. Watch a film for what it is. So many people work hard on it — just appreciate that.”

The ‘Jawan’ (2023) and Family Man star also addressed the culture of online ‘flagging’ and hyper-analysis.

“You can criticise a film — you’re more than welcome to — but don’t overdo it. Don’t make it about red flags, green flags, or Gen Z labels. It’s just a film! It doesn’t always have to reflect today’s world. The filmmaker has a vision — it may or may not resonate with you, and that’s fine.”

On the personal front, Priyamani revealed her husband, Mustafa Raj, often helps her decide on projects. “We discuss everything. Sometimes I go with his instinct, sometimes mine — and most of the time, it works out for me,” she laughed. “He’s the sweetest man. He listens to all my rants!”

The actor will soon be seen reprising her role as Suchi in The Family Man Season 3 alongside Manoj Bajpayee — but off-screen, Priyamani is clearly not afraid to play the role of the industry’s truth-teller.