Yami Gautam
The actress who drew accolades and awards for performance in her debut movie Vicky Donor, is now all set for the release of her second film Aman Ki Asha, this time opposite Ali Zafar. She tells SANGEETA YADAV about her role in the upcoming film and some of her fashion secrets. She was in the Capital recently for the launch of Forever 21 store at the Pacific Mall
‘No time for item numbers’
Tell us about your upcoming movie Aman Ki AshaIJ
It’s an adaptation of a Spanish film but relevant to India-Pakistan ties. I play Asha, a Punjabi girl in love with a Muslim boy Aman, played by Ali Zafar. It’s a love story with a modern approach. But then, when it is producer Neeraj Pandey, the movie has to be interesting and different.
The theme is inter-religion marriage. Do you think, a Hindu-Muslim marriage is a huge issueIJ
Times are changing. Now the choices of the two people involved in a relationship are more important than religious disparity. Irrespective of a person’s background, compatibility in personal and professional terms and respect for each other is what matter the most.
How was your experience working with Ali Zafar, Anupam Kher and Kirron KherIJ
Anupam and Kirron Kher are seasoned actors with huge talent. I used to enjoy their movies as a schoolgirl. It was a great experience working with them. I got to learn a lot from them. Ali is multi-talented. He is a bundle of joy. Whenever he used to be free from the shoot, he would play his guitar and sing songs. It was lovely listening to him live.
Can you recall your best memories of the filmIJ
The entire film was shot in london which was freezing at that point of time. Apart from that, I gorged on the food there. The experience was quite different from Vicky Donor.
Are you open to doing item numbersIJ
I am happy with the kind of work I’m doing as of now. I want to focus on good roles, not item numbers as playing lead roles is my priority. I’m busy with my third film being directed by Prabhudeva. After that, I will start shooting for the next one opposite Ajay Devgn.
Are you a fashion freakIJ
As a celebrity, it is essential to keep a close watch on fashion trends. I try to stand out with my dressing style but not to the extent of making myself uncomfortable. The best part of fashion is it helps an actor evolve.
This I-Day, what would want freedom fromIJ
I would want freedom from crime against women. Despite having laws, we are unable to curb this.
What issues affect you the mostIJ
The constant struggle to be in the limelight in an industry where survival of the fittest is the norm, is a difficult task. As a common person, inflation and price rise bother me a lot. Even too much of technology is no good. I hate to see mobile phones in children’s hands. It takes away innocence.
Are you insecure about fierce competitionIJ
There is enough space for everyone in the industry. I don’t have a godfather so I have to work harder.
Who is your best criticIJ
My parents. I look up to them for advice and hold their hand when lonely. They are my best friends and mentors.
Where do you see yourself 10 years down the lineIJ
Settled down with my family.
You left your law graduation studies to pursue actingIJ
Yes, I was a good law student and quit studies for acting. Now I’m pursuing it through correspondence. Nobody from my college could have thought I would become an actress as I was shy and an introvert. When I got the offer for commercials and serials, I gave it a try. I’m glad I made this choice.
In Bollywood, link-ups are common. You have been linked to Sirish. How do your parents react to all thisIJ
When somebody links me up with an actor and creates baseless controversies, it’s not at all entertaining. But I don’t waste my time and energy on these issues and prefer to focus on work. My parents know what is true and what’s not.