Simran's life is the stuff that could inspire film scripts.
Her overnight success from a performance in a college function to an anchor of 'Superhit Muqabla' and then to feature in a big launch like the ABCL venture, Tere Mere Sapne reads like a fairy tale.
She even became a sensation down south with a number of whopping hits to her credit in Tamil and Telugu. But at the height of her career she chucked it all off for motherhood. Now, she's back with some fabulous offers coming her way. Vijay caught up with the actress on location of Vinoo Anand's Malayalam film, Heartbeats in Kochi for an exclusive interview. Excerpts:
What is your role in Heartbeats like?
I am playing the central character in the film, who is strong and not of the bubbly kind. She is a mystery woman whose identity is nothing short of an enigma.
What is the difference in the industry now from the time of your South Indian debut (Malayalam film Indraprastham) a decade ago?
I think Malayalam cinema is more open to experiments now. Filmmaking here has become more stylish and technically more sound. For me, it was a break that I took following my marriage and then, motherhood. I am really happy that my comeback is in Malayalam.
What about the days of the ABCL launch?
It was after my performance in a school drama that I was selected to anchor the film song based programme 'Superhit Muqabla' for Doordarshan. Things happened beyond my wildest imaginations and frankly, I never knew then that it would take me so far.
When did you know that you wanted to be an actor?
It all happened by chance. In fact, I dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. I also loved acting and dancing. I have learnt dancing for a while during my younger days and I believe that has brought in a rhythm to my body movements.
Your decision to try your luck in south Indian films soon after being accepted in Hindi was a surprise.
I believe in doing the right thing at the right time. When I was offered the Malayalam film, I did not hesitate, especially since the projects was associated with big names like Mammootty. I wanted to do good work and did not find it necessary to wait for Hindi offers to happen. I am thrilled about the kind of recognition that I got in the south.
Which of your films are the ones you rate as really special?
I have acted in around fifty films and most of them were big hits, which makes my task to pick my favourites really tough. There are lots of Tamil and Telugu films, which brought me recognition and success and every one of them is special in their own way. The ones that come to my mind are Vaali, Kannathil Muthamiittal, Thullatha Manamum Thullum, Parthen Rasithen, Pammal K Sambandham and Kalisundam Raa in Telugu.
When did you know that you wanted to be an actor?
It all happened by chance. In fact, I dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. I also loved acting and dancing. I have learnt dancing for a while during my younger days and I believe that has brought in a rhythm to my body movements.
Your decision to try your luck in south Indian films soon after being accepted in Hindi was a surprise.
I believe in doing the right thing at the right time. When I was offered the Malayalam film, I did not hesitate, especially since the projects was associated with big names like Mammootty. I wanted to do good work and did not find it necessary to wait for Hindi offers to happen. I am thrilled about the kind of recognition that I got in the south.
Which of your films are the ones you rate as really special?
I have acted in around fifty films and most of them were big hits, which makes my task to pick my favourites really tough. There are lots of Tamil and Telugu films, which brought me recognition and success and every one of them is special in their own way. The ones that come to my mind are Vaali, Kannathil Muthamiittal, Thullatha Manamum Thullum, Parthen Rasithen, Pammal K Sambandham and Kalisundam Raa in Telugu.
Off the camera, what is the real Simran like?
(Laughs) I am not a serious kind of person. I am more of a listener than a talker. Basically, I am a quiet person.
What interests you other than films?
Cooking, for one. I am good in cooking continental, Chinese or Indian dishes. What I need to improve on is cooking idlis and I am trying to work on that.
Any big plans in the future?
I don't consider being away for long from films. I am eager to do nice and meaningful roles and continue with what I was doing. I am listening to lots of scripts and have already begun shooting for Okka Magudu in Telugu, which has Balakrishna as the hero.
Click here to track original interview on Rediff !
- Bollyfan
(Source: Rediff Movies)