Launch vehicle
I play the leading lady,Soniyo,in Luv U Soniyo. Soniyo belongs to a Punjabi family and is a sweet,well-mannered girl who is very grounded. She believes in living up to the values imbibed in her by her parents. She detests injustice and is always willing to put up a strong fight for a worthy cause. Luv U Soniyo also marks the acting debut of Tanuj Virani,my co-star,and the directorial debut of Joe Ranjan.
Casting coup
In the Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2010 pageant,there was a category titled Bollywood Diva. The winner of the contest would get a chance to star in Madhur Bhandarkars films. I won that contest. Around the same time,Joe Ranjan was casting the leading lady for his film and he approached his good friend Madhur Bhandarkar,who immediately recommended my name for the role. When I first heard the script,I fell in love with my character Soniyo. I could not have asked for a better launch-pad.
Stepping stone
I am a software engineer. I belong to a small-town called Devas in Madhya Pradesh and after I cleared my AIEEE an engineering test I started pursuing my engineering. But soon after that I participated in the Pantaloons Femina Miss India 2010 beauty pageant and won the Miss India International title. I have not modelled for commercials ever but after the pageant I gave up engineering for a career in acting.
First shot
It was a solo shot of me dressed as a princess that was filmed in Goa. When I reached the sets I was very nervous as it was the first time that I was facing the camera for a film. But the shot went off well. My director and co-star were very supportive during the shoot. Even later on,during the filming when I did not get a take right,no one yelled at me. Everyone on the sets was like a big family and they always gave me the space to grow and improve.
Lessons learnt
I may be just one film old but I have learnt a lot during the shooting of Luv U Soniyo. The process of film making was alien to me when I first came on the sets. I have learnt how to hold my emotions through every take so that my performance is consistent. Initally,I used to give my best shot in the first take and my performance would drop after that. I am also experimenting and trying out different variations.
Stumbling block
I have not really faced a stumbling block. I am from a non-filmi background but my parents have been very supportive and have always been around for me whenever I have needed them. Initially it was a little difficult for me to emote. But I am getting better with time.
Matinee idol
Aamir Khan and Salman Khan are my role models. I loved Hrithik Roshans performance in Guzaarish. Im also a huge fan of Kajol and Madhuri Dixit-Nene.
Future projects
I have not signed any films. Right now I am looking forward to the release of Luv U Soniyo. It will set the base for my filmi career and my future projects. I am here to stay.