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New Delhi: A new face has captured the attention of Malayalam cinema audiences. Actress Raniya Raanaa, who made her silver screen debut in actor Dileep’s family entertainer Prince And Family, is receiving widespread praise for her performance. Directed by Binto Stephen, the film released in theatres on May 9 and has been welcomed warmly by both critics and moviegoers.

While Dileep’s presence was the main draw for audiences initially, it is debutante Raniya Raanaa who has emerged as the surprise package of the film. Her performance as Chinju Rani, the social media-savvy wife of Dileep’s character, has sparked discussions online and won her admiration from industry insiders.

A Character With Grey Shades

In Prince And Family, Raniya Raanaa plays Chinju Rani, a social media creator whose obsession with trends takes a toll on her personal life. The role explores how the pressures of online validation can distort relationships and self-perception.

Unlike the typical glamorous debut roles offered to newcomers, Chinju Rani was layered and challenging. The character begins as a carefree woman deeply invested in the digital world but gradually evolves into someone who regrets the consequences of her choices. Raniya’s ability to convincingly portray this transformation has struck a chord with viewers.

 

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Film critics have noted that her nuanced performance was bold for a first-timer. The willingness to embrace a character with grey shades instead of a conventional “heroine role” has also positioned her as a promising talent to watch in Malayalam cinema.

The Journey Behind the Role

Behind the success of Raniya’s debut lies a story of dedication and transformation. A trained classical dancer and a member of the International Dance Council, UNESCO CID Paris, Raniya has always been immersed in the world of performing arts. She has trained in various disciplines, including dance, violin, veena, and singing, which shaped her artistic foundation long before she faced the camera.

To prepare for Prince And Family, Raniya underwent a dramatic physical change. She reportedly gained 62 kilograms to convincingly portray the fuller look the role demanded. Known for her strict physical discipline as a dancer—often training two to five hours a day—Raniya had to put aside her routines after being confirmed for the role in late March 2024.

“I completely stopped physical workouts until the final schedule wrapped in November 2024,” she shared in an interview. Writer Sharis Mohammed, associated with the project, had even advised her to “soften” her naturally sharp features to better fit the character. This transformation highlighted Raniya’s commitment to authenticity, a quality not often expected of a debut actress.

Family Support and Artistic Roots

Raniya credits her family for nurturing her artistic ambitions from an early age. Speaking to EVT Bharat, she said: “There was never any difficulty from my parents in letting me walk this path of art.” The youngest of three sisters, she grew up in an environment where creativity and self-expression were encouraged.

 

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Her background in classical dance and music not only disciplined her physically but also instilled in her the resilience needed to pursue acting. Friends and mentors recall that she was never afraid to take risks, a trait that seems to have guided her into Malayalam cinema.

How Raniya Landed the Role

The story of how Raniya Raanaa bagged her debut role is as interesting as her performance itself. When an audition call was announced for Prince And Family, Raniya decided to give it a try without much expectation.

“I wasn’t afraid because I was used to getting opportunities and losing them,” she explained. “I went to the audition completely relaxed. I had nothing to lose. That attitude, maybe, is what brought me luck.”

Her calmness worked in her favor, and she was chosen to play Chinju Rani. For Raniya, the moment felt destined. “When I was selected, it felt like destiny. I realised something: if we truly desire something with all our heart, the universe will make sure we receive it,” she added.

A Promising Debut in Malayalam Cinema

With Prince And Family, Raniya Raanaa has successfully announced her arrival in the Malayalam film industry. Her performance has been described as refreshingly natural, emotionally layered, and mature for a newcomer. Fans have taken to social media to applaud her chemistry with Dileep and her convincing portrayal of a modern woman grappling with the pitfalls of digital culture.

Industry insiders believe that her combination of artistic background, physical dedication, and risk-taking attitude could set her apart from her contemporaries. The fact that she embraced a character-driven role instead of relying solely on glamour has already earned her credibility as a serious actress.

As audiences and filmmakers continue to take note of her talent, Raniya Raanaa’s career appears to be on an exciting upward trajectory. For now, the young actress seems content with the appreciation she has received, while fans eagerly await news of her next project.