A big screen leap for Prachi Desai

With Rock On, popular television actress Prachi Desai is looking forward to a full-fledged career in Bollywood

Small screen star Prachi Desai has made her way to Bollywood with Rock On. The 20-year-old plays director-turned-actor Farhan Akhtar's leading lady in the movie, which releases on Friday.

Apart from Rock On, Prachi is doing Abbas-Mustan's Life Partner in which she will be sharing screen space with actors like Fardeen Khan, Govinda, Tusshar Kapoor and Genelia D'Souza.

The young actress, who walked her way to success with her portrayal of Bani in TV soap Kasamh Se, speaks to tabloid! about her Bollywood debut and the exciting shift from small screen to big screen.

How did you manage to get the lead role in Rock On?

One day, while I was shooting for my TV serial Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, I got a call from Abhishek Kapoor [director of Rock On] to screen test for the role of Saakshi. They dressed me up in the way the character looks and I had to speak a few lines.

Everything happened so fast that I didn't even realise that I was part of an exciting project which also happens to be my Bollywood debut.

How was the experience of acting opposite Farhan Akhtar?

It has been an amazing experience. I was in grade eight when I saw Dil Chahta Hai [Akhtar's directorial debut] and have been a fan of his films since then. And to make a debut opposite Farhan in Rock On is like a dream come true. I was nervous when I started shooting for the film and even forgot my lines but Farhan was patient. He is basically an easy guy who has an amazing sense of humour. I learnt so much from him.

What would you prefer Akhtar as — an actor or a director?

It is very difficult for me to compare and judge his skills. He is a fabulous actor and I am in awe of his acting skills. In fact he is unbelievable as a singer too. I believe that Farhan wanted to be a part of a rock band when he was young and fulfilled his dream with this film. He is a multi-talented guy who can shine in every role he takes up.

Is it true that you also have sung in Rock On?

Yes, I did sing a few lines. It was part of my role.

Is there a difference between acting on the small and big screen?

I think the two are varied and acting in a TV serial is different from doing a film. In films, you are always on your toes as you get only one chance to prove. You have to look your best and give your best. In three hours time we have to prove ourself. On the other hand in small screen, there is room for improvement on a regular basis.

You acted in a successful TV soap Kasamh Se, so are you feeling confident about your big screen debut?

Well acting in Kasamh Se has indeed made me a confident actress but acting in a film is a different ball game. I am not sure how the audience will react. All I can do is keep my fingers crossed and hope the film and my character are appreciated.

Are you aware of the casting couch in the industry?

I have heard of such things but I haven't experienced any such thing.

Besides Rock On, what do you have lined up?

I am working for Abbas-Mustan's Life Partner opposite Govinda and talks are on for some more films. But right now I am nervously awaiting the result of Rock On.