'Parava,' in my head, was always a film about children. And I was like, 'If I can be part of the film and help promote it in some way or the other, I'd be very happy.' I also did 'Ann Maria' because it was a story about kids.
While I am fluent in Hindi, I was a little worried about my accent. So when I was approached for 'Karwaan,' I told them they need to first listen to me speak in Hindi, in case it sounds off.
I studied business in the U.S. and later worked in Dubai.
One has to move from one's comfort zone to challenge oneself.
I've been dubbing my own lines in Tamil for some time now.
I can't come to terms with stardom or see myself as a star.
When I was growing up, I wasn't particularly great at anything. I was in my own world, and my teachers felt I'd never reach my potential. Even in sports, I'd only play team games because I felt I was not good enough to outshine anyone.
I was shying away from acting for the longest time - because of having such big shoes to fill.
I chose my own path because that was the only way.
I've done all my schooling at Chennai - it's always home for me. All my growing up years have been spent here, and I have really fond memories associated with the city.
I enjoy clothes. My mother tells me how, even as a kid, I used to choose my own clothes. I have a feel for it, and I do the costume coordination for my photo shoots as well. Many a time, even my characters wear the clothes I choose.
I have always believed if the intention is right, it'll be a good film.
For any actor, being part of a Mani Ratnam film is a great experience. I grew up watching his films.
People working in films are somewhat like gypsies: we move from set to set and spent weeks, sometimes even longer working while shooting a film. Right from the spot boys to the make-up guys and cast and crew, we become a kind of family.
I can make chicken curry, rice, kheema... I am a foodie and enjoy varied cuisines. My favourites are Korean and Japanese.
I enjoy working in movies that appeal to and will be seen by many people.
For me, style is all about confidence. What you wear, both in terms of clothing and jewellery, should add to your confidence.
I might play characters that are loud in the movies, but in real life, I'm not loud in terms of personality.
I feel lucky that I always have a number of films to choose from. I would like to come out of my comfort zone while doing various roles, and I don't want to keep repeating my characters.
It is when I am convinced about my character that I can do justice to that role.
