CHENNAI: As December wraps the city in lights, music, and quiet moments of reflection, musician-actor Andrea Jeremiah pauses between notes and scenes. From cherished festive memories that continue to shape her relationship with the season to the simple rituals that anchor her amid a packed schedule, she speaks with an honesty that mirrors her artistry.
This year has been eventful for Andrea, with Mask, which she has produced, her return as Chandra from Vada Chennai in Vetrimaaran-Silambarasan TR’s Arasan, and numerous concerts.
Amid her busy schedule, she engages in a candid conversation with DT Next, opening up about how she plans to celebrate Christmas this year. The conversation also traces her dynamic journey across cinema and music, where experimentation, discipline, and self-belief have become constants.
Excerpts from the interview
Christmas came early this year for you as you turned the producer as well with Mask. How does it feel to have added another feather in your cap?
To be honest, it was more of a great life lesson than a feather in my cap, because being a producer is not easy! Having said that, I’m glad I took this leap of faith, because I truly believe this industry needs more female directors and producers, and I hope that change happens gradually.
Lately, Christmas in Chennai/ Tamil Nadu has defied religion as people from different communities celebrate the festival. Tell us more about sharing joy and happiness with everyone on the special day of the year.
Absolutely! And that’s because the spirit of Christmas defies religion; it’s beyond that. Moreover, I’m proud to say that the people of Tamil Nadu have always looked beyond religion, and that’s why I love my city and state. I always say that my Hindu friends celebrate Christmas with way more enthusiasm than I do.
Tell us about your favourite Christmas memory. I am sure it should be from the carols.
My favourite Christmas memories are from childhood, when my grandmother was still alive. She would take all the grandchildren to attend midnight mass at the church in Arakkonam, and afterwards we would open our presents. The house would be overflowing with Christmas goodies, and there was a tree in the garden decorated with lights, as well as a lovely crib. I used to join carol singers going from house to house singing carols through the night. Those memories will stay with me forever.
Beyond all this, what does Christmas mean to you?
The magic of Christmas lies in the joy of giving. It’s a time for sharing, forgiveness and family. Our lives are so busy, we forget the im-portance of connecting with the people in our lives, and Christmas is a great time to do that.
The day is all about give and take. Is Andrea a giver or a taker? What would you love to give the most and receive the most?
I think life has given me enough and more, so I try to make Christmas special for others, especially those who don’t have the means to celebrate.
Though it is too early to talk about Arasan, is it a working Christmas for you? Or how are you planning to celebrate this year? Else, how is your typical celebration like? Also, tell us about joining forces with Vetrimaaran yet again.
It’s definitely too early to talk about Arasan, but I’m thrilled to play Chandra again after all these years. I worked up until December 18, but it’s a policy of mine to never work the week of Christmas. Needless to say, always a pleasure to be on a Vetrimaaran set, and now that it’s familiar territory, I look forward to the experience even more.
Being a musician, today concert culture has become prevalent and is also being embraced by the audience. How do you see the future, and when is Andrea’s next concert in Chennai?
My next concert in Chennai is happening at VGP on January 3. I’m really looking forward to it! I literally grew up onstage, so it makes me really happy to see the concert culture booming in India. I also make it a point to attend some Carnatic concerts at this time of year, because it’s such an authentic Chennai experience and a true celebration of the craft.
Actor, singer, producer, would 2026 see Andrea the director?
Not anytime soon! (laughs)
What is your wish-list for this Christmas?
As cliched as it sounds, all I want for Christmas is for all my loved ones to be happy and well in the coming year!