Tisca Chopra
She completes two decades in Bollywood this year, but Tisca Chopra is more excited about her second innings on TV with 24. Her long cherished dream is to be a part of a film that is nominated for the Oscar Awards. The dazzling actress chats up with Sangeeta Yadav about her upcoming international project, Qissa
‘24 is good but no to daily soaps’
How has your journey been so farIJ
It has been wonderful and I have evolved a lot as an actor and a person. But I am not done yet. There is a lot more that I want to do. At the moment though I am awaiting two big things in my life — Qissa with Irrfan is a film produced by an international banner and 24, a TV series with superstar Anil Kapoor. Qissa is an Indian-German drama written and directed by Anup Singh.
What inspired you to carry onIJ
A lot of things. I am a very determined actor and I think that works in my favour. If I see a challenge, I take it up for the sake of testing my limits. I am also a big learner, so that is an added advantage.
Is there any movie that has had an impact on your life IJ
Whenever I watch Sikka(released in 1989 starring Dharmendra and Jackie Shroff) it brings alive a lot of memories. I recall stories of partition and how my grandparents crossed the Wagah border to come into India. It is a lovely film.
What are you looking forward to IJ
I want to take Bollywood to the Oscars. This has been my 10 year plan in this industry. I hope this dream comes true very soon. At a personal level, I want to keep bringing out my husband, Captain Sanjay Chopra’s books. He is a passionate writer and his books have a very meaningful message going out.
What has been a stumbling blockIJ
Sometimes, it becomes difficult to cope with the expectations that my directors and the audience have of me. Also good script and a decent role is hard to come by, a lesson I have learnt by heart.
What kind of films do you enjoy the mostIJ
Fun films like Jaane bhi do Yaaro. I am a believer in laughter is the best medicine.
Movie which you love to be a part of...
As Good As It Gets (1997)by James l Brooks.
How excited are you about 24 on ColorsIJ
The buzz has already been created and the response we are getting is mindblowing. I have always felt that the TV is a better medium to reach the masses and I am delighted to be a part of this TV series.
Tell us about your role in this showIJ
I’m Trisha, Jai Singh Rathore’s wife (he is the main protagonist). She is an independent person and a professional painter. Her priorities are very clear. But there is something that changes her completely. Tune into the show to know more.
Would you like to do soaps and reality shows as wellIJ
24 is a short series and doesn’t require full commitment like a film. I have a thing for fiction shows as the content is very moving and intense, but I don’t want to do TV soaps right now
