Tanishka Kapoor who has now become a familiar name in Kannada cinema, says she enjoys the glamour, but prefers a simple life
One among the most promising young actors in Sandalwood, Tanishka Kapoor, looked as beautiful as ever when I met her that Thursday evening. Born in Mumbai, the young starlet has spent most of her time in the city from where many leading ladies of Indian cinema hail, the coastal paradise - Mangalore. In a conversation with The Hindu, Tanishka speaks of her dreams, inspirations and aspirations.
Excerpts from the interview:
How did a career in films materialise?
Since childhood, I have always loved acting. I never thought of it as a serious career option though. It was my mother who inspired me to pursue acting as a profession. Her belief was strong even in the most turbulent times. Cinema means everything to me. How do you feel about your transition from modelling to cinema?
Cinema was always the destination and modelling was the path. I was a freelance model and have always wanted to be an actress, and hence the feeling is euphoric.
Is it demanding to manage your studies along with your career?
Education is of utmost importance. Although it is not a necessity in this profession, I see this as my ultimate back-up option. Managing dual identities as an actor and a student is daunting at times, but the love of my family and my passion for cinema keeps me going.
How was your experience with Upendra in UPPI2? How did you gain this opportunity?
The experience with Upendra was splendid. I could not ask for a better launchpad. I was handed the golden ticket to Sandalwood from a friend of my sister who works as casting director.
Do you believe in method acting or prefer to do things in a spontaneous fashion. What is the kind of preparation you do for a role?
Both factors are of equal importance. Acting is like transferring your soul into the character’s body. The actor needs to feel and execute the emotions the character is feeling, unnerved by the fact that he or she is facing the camera. This can be tricky at times, so I do my homework and prepare for the role. Spontaneity of emotion is a talent only few possess. At times, I improvise on certain scenes. Spontaneity is serendipitous.
Do you follow a specific diet and fitness regime?
I am a vegetarian. I don’t have a specific diet plan. But I don’t over indulge in high-calorie food. I work out in the gym and do yoga for physical and mental fitness.
Are you planning to work in Bollywood and Tollywood too?
My salvation lies in expansion, trying everything that I can be. As a beginner in the industry, I have a lot to learn and I have kept options open for my future.
How do you deal with glamour at such a young age? Is it sometimes overwhelming?
Glamour has been my companion since I was 16 and now I have grown into it. I enjoy the attention I get, but I believe in and lead a simple life.
What is your take on women-centric movies? Women-centric movies are the need of the hour. They propagate the message of empowerment and gender equality. Given an opportunity, I would definitely try to break the stereotypes in our industry.