This article was last updated on April 16, 2022
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It took only the trailer of her upcoming film Barfi! To make the industry sit up and take notice of Ileana D’cruz. Here’s how she managed to do just that!
Launch Vehicle
My character’s name is Shruti and she plays the role of a Bengali girl in Barfi! . Honestly, I can’t reveal much about what I am doing in the film or I’ll give away the plot, but all I can say is that Shruti’s character is a blend of everything. She is a headstrong girl and yet, very emotional. There is an aura of innocence about her. In her quest to explore the world, she goes through a life-changing event, which changes her perspective about love and relationships.
Casting Coup
The casting process for Barfi! was very simple. It wasn’t anything like what I had imagined it to be, because casting in a Hindi film is a very strenuous process. I thought there would be a number of screen tests and auditions but in reality, I didn’t have to give any. My agent told me that director Anurag Basu was looking out for someone for the role of Shruti. We met at his office and discussed the character at length. I met him the next day to discuss the script in detail and was immediately signed on for the film. I remember Anurag saying, “Hey, I think I have found my Shruti.” (Laughs).
Stepping Stone
I was born in Mumbai. Later, I shifted to Goa and stayed there for about seven years. My family shifted back to Mumbai for a couple of years but things didn’t work out. So we moved back to Goa. Meanwhile, I gained a foothold in films down South and have been acting there for the past six years. Some people think that I did modelling before joining films. But I was never a model. I began my career as an actress. Although I’ve toyed with the idea of doing Bollywood films, I didn’t have a burning desire to be a Hindi film actress. Nothing was planned. For me, to do a Hindi film, my only criteria was that the script should be good. And here I am waiting for the release of my first film. It’s destiny, really.
First Shot
We did a short schedule in Darjeeling but it didn’t quite shape up the way we wanted to as the weather worked against us. I consider the schedule in Mumbai as my initial days of shooting. Anurag has always been very clear in his head of what he wants from his actors, but it took me a while to get used to his style of working. My first shot was a difficult, emotional scene. It was a nerve-wracking experience but ultimately the scene was beautifully shot. After that, I blindly trusted Anurag.
Stumbling Block
The character of Shruti is completely opposite to me in real life. She dresses differently. She wore sarees most of the times and carrying that off was very difficult. I am more of a free-spirited woman and portraying emotions was a real challenge for me as well. I was underplaying everything.
Lessons Learnt
I think I learnt how to be patient. It took me a while to understand how Bollywood functions. There were times when I used to wonder if I’d ever be able to grasp the essence of the character. Slowly, steadily and with Anurag’s help, I got into the mode.
Matinee Idols
I don’t have any idols as such, but have a whole list of actresses that I admire for their work and Kajol pretty much tops the list.
Future Projects
I am in the process of signing up a couple of films. I am not at liberty to talk about it, however. But fingers crossed!
Article written by staff at Bollywood Hungama. Read more
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