Oviya (born Helen Nelson; 29 April 1991) is an Indian model and film actress who has worked predominantly in the Tamil film industry.
She made her breakthrough as an actress in Sarkunam’s rural romantic comedy Kalavani (2010), before appearing in other critically acclaimed films including Pandiraj’s Marina (2012), Moodar Koodam (2013) and Madha Yaanai Koottam (2013).
Oviya has also enjoyed box office success through her roles in Sundar C’s Kalakalappu (2012) and the horror comedy Yaamirukka Bayamey (2014), in both of which she portrayed glamorous roles.
Her appearance on the reality show, Bigg Boss, during 2017 garnered her significant media attention and a cult-like following amongst audiences.
Oviya began her career as an actress by portraying supporting roles in Malayalam films, notably working in Kangaroo (2007) and Puthiya Mukham (2009) starring Prithviraj and as one of the lead characters in the college drama Apoorva (2008).
Oviya then worked towards completing a BA in Functional English at Vimala College in Thrissur, before director Sargunam approached her for Kalavani (2010). Sarkunam cast her in the leading female role after seeing a picture of her online and was convinced that he had found the correct actress to portray the role despite reservations from the producer.
She was featured opposite Vimal, and the film subsequently gained positive reviews and became a sleeper hit at the box office.
Critics praised Oviya’s performance of a village-based schoolgirl, with a critic stating “Oviya’s marvelous expressions convey her gratitude, and she uses her eyes to say it all”.
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