Gladrags MegaModel winner, anchor, host, theatre performer,
fashionista and now a film actress; Rupali Suri is heading to become an
entertainment all-rounder. The 20-something has played the Indian National
Congress President Sonia Gandhi "with a difference" in Bharat
Dabholkar's directorial comic satire play Bottoms Up. And she'll be seen next
in an English film 'Dad... Hold My Hand'. We decided to check out her feelings
and ask her about life before she takes her next flight.
Why did you choose
your profession?
Rupali Suri: Oh, I didn't. My profession chose me. I used to be
a great fan of dancing and talking the talk. One thing led to another and
before I knew I was performing and anchoring and hosting shows, and then
modeling and doing theatre, and next you will see me in movies. Life is running
and I'm keeping pace.
Tell us about your
first film 'Dad... Hold My Hand'.
Rupali: It’s directed by the super-talented late Arun Frank,
who was a wizard at directing television serials in the late nineties. I play
the lead's fiancé Ria in the film starring Denzil Smith, Ratna Pathak and
Jayesh Kodwani. It is made entirely in English and shot in London and Mumbai.
It's doing the rounds of the festival circuit, before releasing in India and
the West.
You also do theatre.
Right?
Rupali: Yes, I play Sonia Gandhi with a difference in Bharat
Dabholkar's play Bottoms Up. It's great fun. I get to enact many shades, and
even grin, smile, take taunts chin up, and once in a while, flip my hair in
stylish spectacles and crisp articulately worn cotton sarees. (laughs)
Any barriers you have
overcome on this journey?
Rupali: I was a plump and chubby child and had to contend with
weight issues as I grew up. But once I entered showbiz, I became conscious and
cautious and transformed myself. Thanks to my supportive mom, I haven't faced
any huge barrier in my personal life. But you see, sometimes fear of the
unknown can be a greater emotion than love. I have to admit that at times, I
have faced a self-inflicted barrier in my professional life, where I have held
myself back and waited for an opportunity to appear. But once I realized that
attitude wasn't working, I slowly and steadily reprogrammed my mind with the
'go for it' attitude. Once that was in place, the barriers fell away. And from
then, it's been a steady and sturdy climb.
Who do you think is
the most glamourous and fashionable celebrity in Bollywood and why?
Rupali: Of course, we have Deepika (Padukone) who was a model
and then Sonam (Kapoor). The latest in the list is Lisa Hayden. She too dresses
her mind.
From the current lot
of designers, who do you think matches your fashion?
Rupali: I'm extremely fond of Rahul Mishra and Vaishali S. The
latter's garments are very feminine and even give that great look in
silhouettes. Now that's all about perfect cut and fit, isn't it? I also like
the sensibilities of some other budding designers. As long as fashion is about
how you feel, it can never go out of fashion.
How do you feel to be
called a fashionista?
Rupali: I blush. :p
What is the mantra
behind your bedazzling fit body?
Rupali: I have read somewhere that seventy percent of the body
is made in the kitchen and the rest thirty percent is made in the gym. So
lookout for your diet and understand your body requirement. As they say, no
pain, no gain.
If you could only
keep five possessions, what would they be?
Rupali: My moms sarees, my books, education certificate, all my
old pictures and a nose ring I've been gifted by my aunt. (grins)
Did Bollywood always
appeal to you?
Rupali: Oh yes, I was quite filmi in my growing up days too. I
guess, I've danced to each and every one of Madhuri Dixit songs. See, I've
always had an inclination towards all things creative. I've always liked to
perceive situations and then see how I can fit in.
A Bollywood dialogue
you swear by.
Rupali: I have grown up teasing my sisters with the line
"Mard ko dard nahin hota" from the Bachchan movie Mard. I've even
played pranks on some film dialogues. The latest in my book is "Maine ek
baar commitment kardi, toh main apne aap ki bhi nahi sunta!" Lol.
If a film was remade,
which one would you want to be a part of?
Rupali: Oh, the top billing for that wish would go to Sridevi's
character in Chandni. The role had so many nuances of a woman's feelings and
Sridevi portrayed it with so much heart. Another one would be Dilwale Dhulania
Le Jayenge. Kajol was an out-and-out sweetheart in it.
If not a model and
actress, what would have been your alternate career choice?
Rupali: Oops! Never given much thought to that. But now that
you ask, I guess, I might have joined my father in business.
How do you manage
your personal and professional life?
Rupali: In our fast-paced world, personal and professional life
is often intertwined. But my family helps me stay grounded and manage a
balancing act.
What is your ideal
partner like?
Rupali: I guess I'd give more importance to compatibility more
than looks or riches. Someone I can talk and share anything and everything
with. After all, if a girl cannot open her heart to her partner, then she will
always be wanting in life.
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