In her debut film, Manassinakare, opposite seasoned actor Jayaram, Nayanthara held her own. Her next film was opposite Mohanlal. The 21 year old was criticised for appearing opposite senior stars but she declared she learnt a lot from the veterans.

For the first time, her acting talent was appreciated -- in her new release, Raapakal, opposite Mammootty, she played a servant girl, sans makeup.

She also played Rajnikanth's heroine in Chandramukhi.