Manushi Chhillar: Manushi is happy with the response received by 'Malik', said- the audience applauded, but the critics…

Manushi Chillar's film 'Maalik' has been released recently. In 6 days, this film has collected more than Rs 19 crore at the box office. 'Maalik' is a very important film for Manushi's career. Now Amar Ujala talked to the actress about this film and her career.

Now that 'Maalik' has been released, what do you remember when you look back?

To be honest, I remember the journey the most when we all worked with our hearts, hard work, and dedication. From the director to the cast and the producer, everyone had a clear and strong vision. Seeing that hard work succeeds feels like a dream. This was the first time in my career when I got so much appreciation for my performance. As an actor, when people notice your work, it feels very good.

Some praised the film, while some questioned the script. What was the real reaction in your view?

Everyone's point of view is different. I am happy that the audience who came to the theatre gave a positive response. Yes, the reviews of the critics were mixed, but they are also important. As an actor, my job is to play the character honestly and if it reaches the people, then that is the biggest victory for me. The special thing was that after the screening, some people from the industry themselves called and said that they enjoyed my work. This was very special for me. Somewhere I felt, at least the hard work was visible.

Do you think that the attitude of people in the industry has changed towards you? Especially from 'Prithviraj' to 'Maalik'?

Yes, now the attitude has changed. At the time of 'Prithviraj', people said that this does not look like my first film. My screen presence and confidence in front of the camera were appreciated, but perhaps it did not have the impact that I wanted. After 'Maalik', for the first time it felt that people not only saw me, but also felt my work.

I have been in the industry for three years, but have not done many films. Are you looking for the right opportunity for yourself?

For me, 'Maalik' was that opportunity. I am an outsider in the industry, so I never expected to get my dream role with my debut. But the role of 'Shalini' felt special to me because it gave me a real chance to perform for the first time. This film was not just a role for me, but a chance where I could go beyond just 'looking good' and make people feel something.

If given a chance, which is that iconic character that you would like to play on screen?

Many roles excite me as an actor, but if I have to choose a classic character, I would like to play Paro from 'Devdas'. It has emotion, grace and a deep tragic beauty.

Have you seen any personal change after becoming famous?

I am still the same person. The only difference is that now I have become more comfortable with cameras and public attention. Initially, when I became Miss World, that change came very suddenly. Sometimes small things like going to dinner also became an attention point. People would start looking at the table, talking, and asking for photos, so it felt a little strange in the beginning. Now gradually I got used to all that.

What has been your biggest lesson while working in the industry?

The biggest lesson I have learned is that you have to be completely clear about your goals. People can give advice, but in the end, the decision will be yours. I never felt that I will get a role just because I know someone. I will get an opportunity only when my hard work and ability will come to the fore. That's why my focus is always on improving myself. This mindset has brought me here and will take me further too.

How do you manage films, business, and social work?

I have always been a multitasker. I used to study while preparing for Miss India, so balancing has become my habit. During shooting, the entire focus is on the film, but as soon as I get a chance, I take care of my wellness projects, brands and other work.

One thing that your fans do not know?

Not many people know that I paint very well. I am an artist. Painting is like a therapy for me.

What is special about your paintings? What kind of themes or stories do you show in your art?

My paintings mostly explore the emotions and inner worlds of humans. I try to bring out the feelings that we cannot express in words through colors and shapes. This art of mine is not a completely realistic copy, but a very personal and emotional expression.

Has it ever happened that you have completely broken down and felt like giving up everything?
It is absolutely natural to feel like this. There are days when everything seems tiring. However, I am still at the beginning of life. It is not right to give up or stop at this age. There is fatigue, but picking yourself up from that fatigue and moving forward again is the real strength.

PC Social media