Ajay Devgn or Akshay Kumar — whom did you most enjoy working with?
It’s a very difficult question to answer… in fact it’s a bit unfair to pick one among the two great actors. They are both very different to work with. They are very senior to me and I enjoyed working with both of them. In fact, I learnt a lot from them.
What’s the one thing that you learnt from Akshay?
He is very passionate about his work and comes across as a patient and dedicated person. That’s what I really admire in him. He has no airs despite being such a big star.
One quality in you that has helped you in the industry…
I am very perceptive when it comes to understanding. Hence, when someone is explaining a script, a storyline or an idea, I tend to pick it up very easily. It’s a boon that I understand what my director wants of me; he need not explain me the entire story. Also, my mother once said one should never let success get to one’s head or failure to one’s heart. That’s what has kept me grounded and really helped me in the industry.
Was your entry into Bollywood difficult?
No it wasn’t very difficult. I did Magadheera in the South and it was a commercial hit. Rohit [Shetty] happened to see the film and he liked my acting, which is when he approached me for Singham. I feel aspiring actors should be dedicated towards their decision to work in films. Not everyone is lucky to get a big break but I don’t think one should give up hope and hard work.
Would you take risk and experiment with newcomers or small banners?
I wouldn’t mind risking it if the script is interesting. After Singham, I did get a lot of offers but the reason I didn’t take them up is because I had commitments down South. With Special Chabbis, I liked the script. Akshay Kumar was of course an added advantage!
Your character in Special Chabbis is similar to that in Singham. Is that your comfort zone or are you willing to do bold scenes?
I don’t mind doing bold roles but I do have inhibitions when it comes to clothing. It’s my personal choice not because my parents don’t allow me. Yes, I would definitely not want to watch a movie with my family where I’m wearing skimpy clothes that make me uncomfortable. I am not willing to wear a bikini because I don’t think clothes sell a film.
