India, April 16 -- If there is an issue that keeps coming to the forefront whenever a new movie is announced, it's usually representation. For years now, Tamilians have asked filmmakers to cast regional actors in leading roles, only for the criteria to be met by actors, not actresses. Vignesh Raja is the latest filmmaker to receive flak for not just casting Malayalam actor Mamitha Baiju in Dhanush's upcoming film Kara, but also justifying it after brownfacing her for the role.

In an interview with Galatta Plus, Vignesh was asked why it's so hard to find a Tamil girl to play the lead role. Especially when a Malayali has to be tanned to play a Tamilian. He replied that casting an actor depends on their performance and marketability.

"Pers...