Avantika Choudhary: Shattering Stereotypes Through Her Role as Karen in Mean Girls

Avantika Vandanapu, an actress playing the character Karen Shetty in the new Mean Girls musical, believes that her role has the potential to challenge stereotypes about South Asians in the film industry. Karen Shetty, originally played by Amanda Seyfried in the 2004 film, is portrayed as a ditzy character who often acts foolishly. However, Avantika sees this role as empowering rather than demeaning, as it allows her to embrace a character who is confident in her sexuality. She feels that playing this type of character as a South Asian woman is groundbreaking. Avantika also praises the team behind the musical for challenging the visual expectations of the character. As an actress, she is determined to break free from stereotypes and hopes that people will see her as a versatile performer capable of portraying a wide range of characters. The film industry in Hollywood, according to Avantika, offers more opportunities and a less intense working environment compared to the male-dominated industry in India. However, she also acknowledges the unique joys of working on Indian films, such as collaborating with people who share the same language and culture. Overall, Avantika believes that both industries have their advantages and disadvantages.