Tell us about your venture as a producer?
So far, so good! To be able to create and sell good movies, and do it the way you want to is a huge gift. It is not easy, but with a great team in tow and with people who believe in us, we have managed to go out there and make movies that we believe in. I hope we can convert the concern of people into respect.
Is the industry as welcoming for actress-turned-producers, as it is to actor-turned-producers?
As I said, people’s concern for us making movies has been there. Film making is a difficult and different process. It’s not just a film or a title or a label. The journey is not divine, it’s not easy, so one has to have strength, be it emotional, physical or financial and also one has to be able to withstand the hurdles. To be able to write the written word, to present it in a great manner to the audience is a tireless job. As actors, we are protected and pampered and in filmmaking, as producers I met a lot of concerns, people were unsure of the hurdles [coming] my way. We braved it all, we have passion for cinema and I’m sure on my way to turn my dreams to reality. I have been ambitious about storytelling and creating an environment for young, independent filmmakers and believe in their craft. And of course, experiencing happiness, joy in the process.
Will you still be acting in the future?
Once an actor always an actor! It’s odd when people ask me if I will act in movies or not. They are two different dimensions. As an actor, the journey is inward and outward. As an actor, you are an instrument in the hands of the director, if your craft is to be amazing, it adds to your personal growth. It’s a different high to be in front of the camera and being behind it is different altogether. I will not stop acting ever, while for production, I have chosen to produce films.
What sort of movies are you planning to produce?
We want to make entertaining films.
What are the latest updates on your wedding date?
We have not fixed a date as of yet; [however] around the release date of Bobby Jasoos we may make an announcement.
With you and Sahil – are you both similar or do opposites attract?
We are a couple and run the company together. We are similar in terms of our values and our ambitions are similar. We have different personalities though. I have to keep at it, I am always in a hurry while he thinks, dwells and does what he wants to. So it is an interesting balance, it’s an in between space. His approach to life and work is meditative; he is a thinker while I am impulsive.
You’ve become a style icon, what’s your fashion insight?
I like to wear what suits the occasion and mood. It feels great to know that people have recognized that attribute of me, but I have not tried to focus or become a style icon. Also I believe what you wear is a reflection of who you are. It comes from the upbringing you have had and that’s how you keep that in check. However, the basic parameter is whether it will suit the occasion and the gathering.
Do you have any prized possessions or a piece that you would love to incorporate on your wedding?
Myself (laughs). I have inherited this 150-year-old Banarasi sari from my grandmother. I cannot wear it, as it’s very delicate and aged but it’s a spectacular piece. Its rose pink in colour with gold leaves and the banarasi silk is like butter paper with real silver motifs woven, they don’t make any more of those. If I ever have a daughter, I would love to hand it down to her.
Your take on the film industry as opposed to when you entered the industry? Anyone you love to cast or work with in your films?
It’s a really interesting time with some incredible people. I’d love to cast Alia in my film, she is refreshing. Even Nawaz Siddiqui and Irrfan Khan are tremendous actors. I’d love to act with Ranbir, even if I have to play a wall, he is gifted. Today, script is the hero, story is the super star and everyone wants to make entertaining and meaningful movies. It’s an era of commercial, yet sensible cinema as we have all kinds of audiences in India.
Your upcoming projects and future plans?
Everything that I do is an extension of who I am, it reflects my personal ethos. Even the social work I do is an extension of who I am. I have a passion for filmmaking and I intend to continue to make films. I love the experience and think I am blessed to be able to do so. I also plan to direct a film. For now, Bobby Jasoos is keeping us busy.
