Riya Sen, who made her Hollywood debut with Highway 905, says she loves challenges

Over the past two decades, actress Riya Sen has transitioned seamlessly between Bollywood, regional cinema and the ever-expanding digital space. Now, as she ventures into Hollywood, Riya opens up about her experience, evolution of the film industry, her family legacy and future aspirations.

Riya’s recent Hollywood debut Highway 905 marks a significant milestone in her career. “My Hollywood debut was actually an unexpected opportunity,” she reflects. “Working in Hollywood was an exciting experience; it’s a whole new world of filmmaking. I had to adjust to a different environment and understand the nuances of their style of storytelling, but it was incredibly enriching.”

Given the rise of global streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, opportunities for Indian actors in international cinema have grown exponentially. “These platforms have opened so many doors. The audience is global now and Indian talent is being recognised on a larger scale. For young Indian actors aspiring to break into international cinema, my advice is simple—stay true to your roots, work hard and be patient. Talent alone isn’t enough; it’s your resilience and adaptability that will set you apart in the global market,” she says.

Over the years, Riya has witnessed the film industry evolve dramatically. “When I first started, the industry was very different,” she admits. “The roles for women, in particular, were more limited and often one-dimensional. Today, there are far more diverse roles for women and storytelling is more dynamic, thanks to technology. The future is about global stories and innovative filmmaking. I’m excited to see how the industry will continue to grow.”

As an actress who has worked across Bollywood, regional cinema and digital platforms, Riya’s approach to choosing roles is equally varied. “I choose roles based on the story and the opportunity they present for my own growth,” she shares. “I’m drawn to characters that challenge me. Every new project is an opportunity to learn something new and that keeps me motivated.” In terms of the portrayal of women in films, Riya sees a significant shift. “It’s wonderful to see how women’s roles have become more complex and realistic. Today, women are shown as multifaceted individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses, rather than just serving as side characters or love interests.”

The digital era, with its explosion of web series and streaming content, has been a game-changer for many actors, including Riya. She’s appeared in several successful series, including Ragini MMS: Returns, and has embraced the creative freedom that the digital world offers. “I love working with digital platforms,” Riya admits. “They allow for more creativity and flexibility. There’s always some pressure to meet audience expectations, but that challenge excites me.”

In today’s world, social media is an inescapable part of an actor’s life, and Riya has a balanced approach to it. “Social media is tricky. I try to stay active and engage with my fans, but I also make sure to keep my personal life private. It does change how fans perceive me, but I try to remain authentic and true to myself.” As Riya reflects on her career, she is excited for the future. “Looking back, I’ve learned so much from my early roles,” she says. “Patience, adaptability and the willingness to embrace new experiences have been key. These lessons have made me a better actress.”

Her aspirations are vast. “I’d love to explore fantasy or sci-fi genres in the future. These genres offer new challenges, and I’m always eager to push my boundaries,” she says.

For Riya, diversity in storytelling is crucial. “The industry needs to focus on more inclusive narratives and better representation of different cultures and experiences,” she says. “This is not just important for the audience, but for actors as well. It’s about telling stories that reflect the true diversity of life.” As Riya looks to the future, she’s driven by new goals and ambitions. “I want to keep exploring new creative avenues,” she says. “Directing or producing could be something I’d love to try in the future. The possibilities are endless.”

When asked about her legacy, Riya reflects thoughtfully. “I hope to leave behind a body of work that is diverse and meaningful,” she says. “And I want to be remembered for my contributions to society as well. To my fans, I’d say — believe in yourself, stay true to your passions, and never stop pursuing your dreams.”