Actor Lakshmi Manchu, who is promoting her movies recently, spoke about whether abuse can ever be normalised in relationships. While discussing her upcoming films ‘Pookie’ (Tamil) and ‘Bookie’ (Telugu), she opened up about marriage, dignity, and changing relationship values.

What did she say about normalised abuse?

According to India Today, Lakshmi stressed that no relationship should demand silent suffering. She believes personal happiness must come first. According to her, many couples begin with hope but drift when effort fades. She said at an event in Hyderabad, “You do you. Do what gives you happiness. Two people come together in their 20s hoping they share the same outlook on life. If either of them takes the marriage for granted or starts slacking, that’s where the downfall begins.”She made it clear that choosing to endure pain is a personal decision, but it should never be glorified. “Some people say no matter how much I suffer or how much I’m abused, I will stay with my husband. That’s their life,” she said. Her tone was calm yet firm.

What did she say about the movie ‘Thappad’?

Lakshmi referenced the film ‘Thappad’ to explain her stand. The movie’s theme resonated strongly with her. She questioned why physical violence is ever tolerated within marriage. “I watched Thappad and thought it was brilliant. Who gives anyone the right to hit another person? My parents don’t touch me – who are you to hit me? That’s where I stand. You need self-respect.”

What did Lakshmi Manchu say about changing social norms and courtship

She also reflected on how relationships have evolved. Society is more accepting now, but she feels emotional depth has weakened. Social media, she believes, has altered expectations and behaviour. “There was a time when our parents would never agree to us being in relationships. Now we’ve reached a point where it’s acceptable, but how you conduct yourself in a relationship matters. Social media has really corrupted the way we think,” she said.She added that modern courtship often lacks sincerity. Effort has been replaced by convenience. “Earlier, if a man wanted to approach a woman, he had to put in effort. Today, it’s the same copy-paste message sent to ten women. The world has changed drastically, and it’s up to us women to decide if someone truly means what they say.”

About her personal life

Lakshmi married Andy Srinivasan in 2006, and they have a daughter, Vidya Nirvana. The couple currently lives in different countries due to work. She also admitted that her upbringing encouraged traditional gender roles, but her thinking has evolved.