At just 20, Ria Nalavade is swiftly becoming one of the most sought-after new faces in the Marathi film industry. Born in Bangalore, with roots in Belgaum, Ria’s rapid rise is nothing short of impressive. Having already completed five feature films, she is set to make her major debut in the Marathi industry this November with ManMauji, a film eagerly anticipated by fans and industry insiders alike.
Directed by Sheetal Shetty and produced by Vinod Malgevar under the prestigious Golden Gate banner (known for Gulaabjaam), ManMauji showcases Ria in the role of an ambitious corporate go-getter navigating her career while facing off with her arrogant boss, played by Chaava fame Bhushan Patil. Early buzz surrounding her stunning Sushmita Sen-inspired entry in the teaser has already turned heads, signaling her as a rising star to watch.
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But Ria’s ambitions extend far beyond Marathi cinema. She is already working on two Hindi films and has made it clear that she has no intention of being boxed into any one language or genre. For her, the thrill of acting lies in embodying diverse characters and exploring the limitless potential of cinema. “I don’t want language to restrict me,” she shared, explaining her excitement about playing roles in multiple film industries.
Ria first captured the public’s attention when she won the prestigious national Freshface contest at just 17 years old. Her quick wit, charm, and dance skills won her the title, and immediately afterward, she landed a leading role in the independent film Teen Payancha Ghoda directed by Noopur Bora. Her portrayal of Chandrika garnered rave reviews at the Mumbai Film Festival, with industry veterans praising her performance.
Coming from a family of trailblazers, Ria credits the strong women in her life for her drive and determination. “My grandmother, Nayantara Nalavade, was the first female mayor of Nipani town, and my mother Pushpa is the most hardworking woman I know. I want to be like them,” she says, clearly proud of her heritage. She is particularly thrilled that her big-screen debut is in Marathi cinema, reflecting her deep connection to her roots.
In addition to her film career, Ria has also made a name for herself in the modeling world, representing major brands such as Yardley, Airtel, and Mahindra. However, she is determined to be recognized not just for her beauty but for her depth and versatility as a performer. She is also an animal lover and philanthropist, volunteering her time to causes that support animals and children. Ria has studied screenplay writing and aspires to one day win international awards for India, sharing Indian stories with the world.
As an outsider in the film industry, Ria’s journey is especially inspiring. She has carved her own path without any connections, relying solely on her talent and hard work. With her upcoming projects and undeniable potential, the future certainly looks bright for this rising star. We can’t wait to see what’s next for Ria Nalavade.
