The vibe on the sets of Zanjeer in Hyderabad is gregarious. And the presence of the vivacious Priyanka Chopra makes the atmosphere even more electric. In between rehearsals and takes, the actor sat down for an interview with Hyderabad Times, speaking on movies, music, family and things close to her heart.
Excerpts from the interview:
So, how has your stay in Hyderabad been so far?
Ah! Hyderabad. Every time I go back from here, I pile on the pounds. That's because I can't stop myself from gorging on Andhra delicacies. And this time around, we've been savouring great food from Ram Charan's house. Upasna (Kamineni) has been extremely kind and sends us whatever we want. Plus, we've been ordering food from all popular restaurants in the city.
You've been part of three films that are remakes of Amitabh Bachchan blockbusters, Zanjeer included.
(Laughs) You know, I'm Mr Bachchan's brand ambassador. Since I can't play hero, I've been the leading lady in movies that are remakes of Mr Bachchan's hits. People have been saying that since all the remakes have done well, this film too will hit bull's eye at the BO. But I don't want such pressure on me because I alone was not responsible for the success of those movies.
So, why act in the remake of Zanjeer?
If you want to know why the film is being remade, you got to ask Apoorva (Lakhia, director) and Amit (Mehra, Producer). They approached me with the script and I loved it. In fact, I hadn't seen the original Zanjeer, Agneepath or Don, till I actually signed those remakes. That's because I didn't grow up watching those films. So, when I was approached for Zanjeer, I didn't have any pre-conceived notions about it. I loved the story, and thought it would be really interesting to give a different perspective to Mala's character that was played by Jaya ma'am in the original. Plus, the prospect of making a bilingual is exciting. The film is also being shot in Telugu and I'm working with Charan who is a big star here. Basically, my decision has been instinctive.
It also marks your return to Telugu films after Apuroopam...
Yes, it does. I was very nervous shooting the Telugu portions of the film. But Charan has been an extremely supportive co-actor. He helps me with my Telugu and I help him with Hindi.
The year 2012 has been good for you professionally. Agneepath and Barfi! did well, plus you launched your singing career...
Professionally, I'm in a very happy place right now. All my life, I've never taken stock of my career on a yearly basis, or on the whole as a matter of fact. I've been part of such incredible and successful films throughout my career that I feel blessed.
I just enjoy my work and take pleasure in it. I love coming on the sets, working on my role, hanging out with my crew. But now, when I look back at this year, yes, it has been great. In fact, it started with Don 2, then Agneepath and Barfi! — all having collected more than `100 crores at the BO. And then I had my album coming out which was a success. So this year has been perfect.
You've made quite a splash in the music world as well...
Well, I'm just a beginner you know. But my musical journey so far has been overwhelming because my first-ever single went platinum! My next single with The Chainsmokers, called Erase, has been doing extremely well in the EDM circuit. As a musician, I know that it'll take time for me to get to the ranks of an established artiste. Nevertheless, I'm very happy that people are appreciating my music.
So, as a musician what you've been putting out there, is it really your kind of music?
I have a very eclectic taste when it comes to music. Gradually, when more and more of my singles release, you'll find that I have various influences. I like pop, EDM, ballads, mid-tempos, rap, Bollywood — the works. My album has a part of me in it. But my vocal coach will be very upset with me because I haven't had time to practice my vocals.
This whole year has been hectic for me. I finished four films and released all of them while I was working on my album. My schedule is just crazy. But when I do get into the recording studios, I get into rigorous practice mode.
Not too long ago, people wrote you off, saying you have no good films in hand
I don't know, but people like writing me off for some reason. In fact, every hero or heroine faces the same problem. If two of your films don't do well, people say you're out in the cold and your career is over. One film does well, and you've had the best year of your life! I don't believe in all that's written. Nothing is permanent in showbiz and I know that. I only compete with myself. As an actor, I know I cannot compete with the monetary success of another film. It's not in my hands.
Unfortunately, we actors get too much credit for that. But people need to realise it all depends on how good or bad a film is and how much of a star you are, because being a big star guarantees good openings. But that's about it. As an actor, I like taking on projects that challenge and excite me. I'll do an action film like Agneepath, a comedy like Dostana, or a film like Barfi!.
Again, not many were happy with the choice of Barfi! being India's official entry to the Oscars
We live in a democracy and everyone has the right to voice his/her opinion. Barfi! has been one of my most special films till date. We had an incredible time making it. The film was like a little baby for us. Anurag (Basu), Ranbir (Kapoor), Ileana and I were so protective of this movie because we felt it was so fragile. Performance-wise, everybody did so well. Look, I'm not making excuses for my film — people can have their opinions.
There are so many Hindi films made that are a scene-to-scene copy of Hollywood flicks. Here, we've always maintained that we are paying tribute to the masters of Hollywood like Roberto Benigni and Charlie Chaplin with Barfi!. Those four scenes were inspired, not copied. How many films will bring a smile to your face after you've left the theatre? Hardly. Barfi! is one of them and we should celebrate it. If our film does not make it to the top 5 at the Oscars, not a problem — at least we were in the reckoning. If we do get into the top 5, then rest assured, I'll do the bhangra on the red carpet!
Personally, you've been going through a tough time what with your father being unwell...
You know, it's very difficult to cope when you have a parent who is unwell. My dad's been ill for a while. Despite a heavy work schedule, I take time out to spend with my dad. But I know I cannot control anything about it. So, the only way I can deal with all of this, is by immersing myself in work. That's my refuge.
Source:Times of india
