I met up with Tollywood, Kollywood (Karnataka) and Mollywood's current Queen Midas- Soundarya - when she was in town recently shooting with apna Venky. When I reached the sets they were reharsing for this one step in this one song that required umpteen retakes. I fretted about her mood for the interview, but she was unruffled. I'd like to think I was a welcome change from Venky and the posse of extras! ! Anyhow, let it be on record that Soundarya is completely cooperative and friendly.
Punam: Is that your real name?
Soundarya: No it's Soumya. But everyone thought Soundarya is better as a screen name.
Punam: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Soundarya: I hardly have any spare time! But when I do, I garden a lot - I love plants and flowers. And I like listening to music. I like cooking but I don't know much and whenever I enter the kitchen, my mother sends me out! Because whenever I try a dish from a book, it comes out bad.
Punam: Why haven't you signed any Hindi banners after Sooryavansham?
Soundarya: I didn't really get very interesting offers. Although working with Amitabh Bacchan was a different experience altogether, I just enjoyed it. If I have to do something, I feel I should do it perfectly, and ofcourse, Hindi language is a problem. Plus, in the North, it's not only the language but also the time taken for production - even the artiste loses interest. I'm really enjoying my career here, enjoying the roles I'm getting. I worked hard to get to this position, and I'm popular here.
Punam: Is there any particular role you would like to essay?
Soundarya: I'd like a negative role.
Punam: That would be a little difficult, with an innocent face like yours?
Soundarya: Everyone tells me that I have a very sweet face! I'd like to change that. I wish I had a more flexible face!
Punam: Did you always want to join films?
Soundarya: Not at all, I wanted to go into medicine. I took science in college. But my dad was a Producer - Director in Kannada films, and someone saw me, and one thing led to another.
Punam: How do you get along with your competition?
Soundarya: As far as I'm concerned I've never had a problem with anybody, no rivalry.
Punam: What do you have to say about the Raj Kumar kidnapping?
Soundarya: That is really bad, he is such a respected man. In fact, out of respect, we are not shooting also, the Kannada film industry is on a complete halt.
Punam: Doesn't this make you worry about security?
Soundarya: See, ya, we do try and there is security, but beyond that, what can you do?
Punam: Is it alright for film stars to endorse brands in the rampant manner they've suddenly started?
Soundarya: There's nothing wrong in doing ads, especially if they're paying good money. I've recently done a South one for Tata tea.
Punam: What is your ultimate ambition?
Soundarya: I'd like to be successful in life. Today I'm successful in films, but once I leave, I'd like to extend that to my life. I'd like to be known for my character. I was never very ambitious, always a dreamer, Financially, things may have changed, but I haven't, as a person.
Punam: How good are you with money?
Soundarya: Luckily I have a brother who looks after my administration and my money, because I'm a total spendthrift. I can spend hours in a shop. I love hats, shoes, outfits, handbags, and ethnic jewelery. But if I had to do it, handle money, then I think I could be responsible, yes.
Confident Girl !
