4 min readMumbaiFeb 21, 2014 01:00 AM IST
Daisy Shah
Launch vehicle
In my debut film Jai Ho, I played a young Gujarati girl named Rinky. She is honest, outspoken and extremely fun loving. She loves to play around and shares a special relationship with a little kid, who happens to be her neighbour. It is through this kid that she meets his uncle, Jai Agnihotri (played by Salman Khan) and the story follows.
Casting coup
I have done a few Kannada films down South and a couple of modeling assignments as well. I got a call for a screen test and was asked to enact a sad and romantic scene. I was also told to audition on a dance number, which was Sheila Ki Jawaani. I gave my audition in mid-December 2012, but didn’t hear from the production for quite sometime. It was only on February 22, two days before the first day of shoot, that I was informed that I am in. Since it was all so quick, I was going through mixed emotions. Before the feeling could sink in, there I was, shooting for the film.
Stepping stone
I was born and brought up in Mumbai. By now, I think everyone knows that I started off as a junior artist. I did blink-and-miss roles and was mostly a part of group shots. I got into dancing later and gradually became an assistant after a stint as a background dancer. Around that time, I got a chance to interact with celebrities and understood a lot about the way this industry functions. I have never strived for anything, but have always believed in myself and that’s why, I thought of giving modeling a chance. That’s when a few offers from the Kannada industry came my way and I took up acting.
First shot
My first scene was shot in Dubai and it had both Salman Khan and Tabu. I must confess that I was nervous, but extremely confident at the same time. The nervousness crept in because I was afraid that I might end up with a lot of re-takes as there were two stalwarts before me who could finish a shot in one go. Fortunately, both Salman sir and Tabu were extremely supportive and encouraged me to give my best at everything.
The takeaway
There was a lot to learn from everyone, be it Salman sir’s discipline or getting the required comic timing right with tips by Sohailbhai; everyone who advised me helped me enhance my performance. Also, I think acceptance is extremely important in this industry and I have earned that post this film.
Stumbling block
Luckily, I didn’t face any problem because the entire shooting process was extremely smooth. Although I had to mouth several Gujarati dialogues, it was easy since I am a Gujarati and it all came to me naturally.
Role model
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I don’t really have a role model, because I believe in taking inspiration from things around me. I also try to learn a lot from the characters portrayed by legendary actors. I think each one has something unique about them, which can teach you something.
Future projects
I have about two-three projects around me but I haven’t signed up for anything as I want to take some time before making any move. It’s been just a month since the film’s release, so I’ll think wisely and choose my projects before making any announcement.
Daisy Shah