Sriya Reddy celebrates Diwali with Theni residents

Actress Sriya Reddy, who has been shooting in southern Tamil Nadu's Theni area for her upcoming Tamil comedy "Andaava Kanom", decided to celebrate this year's Diwali in advance with the people in the locality since she's been moved by their warmth.

"We've been shooting here for the past two months. They've been tremendous - be it their hospitality or their co-operation to ensure the smooth conduct of the shooting. It was an absolutely fun-filled learning experience to interact and work with them," Sriya said in a statement.

"I never missed my home thanks to them, and may be back home for the festival as I might miss them. Our unit was all in one voice and thought over the 'thanksgiving' idea. We decided to prepone Diwali and surprise them with our goodwill and gesture," she added.

Sriya and her team have decided to thank them by "gifting sweets, crackers and dresses" for the festival, which falls Oct 23.

"Their blessings and wishes are all over the rushes of 'Andaava Kanom' and I'm sure that this film will enhance the relationship of the common audience with the cast and crew of any unit," she said.

"Andaava Kanom", which revolves around the search of a missing vessel, is directed by debutant Vadivel.