Surilie belongs to a family that is a part of the television industry. Her father holds an important post in Zee Punjabi and her sister Yami is an actress who started her career as a lead in Rajkumar Aryan. But Surilie is determined to create her own identity and make it big in the world of television.
How did you bag this role?
Auditions for this show were being held in Chandigarh. I went for this audition along with my gang of friends. All of us gave it a try but for a lark. I was not at all serious about it. I was shocked when I got a call from the production house saying that I was selected for the lead role. Yet I had to go through a long procedure of giving a number of screen tests before being finalised.
But didn't you worry about your Board exams?
This was too big an opportunity to let go. The channel is big, the producersare good, and the concept and story line is wonderful. The story of this serial is not like that of those regular ones. It is a different and a big show.
As far as studies are concerned, I want to balance both and I will have to do so. This is a challenge that I have taken up against myself. My board exams are in the month of March. I will be going to Chandigarh to appear for it then. I am focused on doing well in my acting career as well as my studies. I am planning to study law after my twelfth exams.
Did your parents support this decision?
Yes, in fact, they are the ones who encouraged me to take up this show and come to Mumbai. They had faith in me. I am too young to go against their decision and take such a big step.
Does your sister Yami Gautami who is also an actress, gives you tips on acting?
Of course she does. She is my biggest inspiration. She is my guide, my mentor, everything. She always helps me out be it in my studies or my acting career. I am really fortunate that I have an elder sister in the same profession to guide me and to stay together with in this big city.
Did you have an ambition to become an actress?
I basically wanted to become a lawyer but acting was also on my mind. I never thought that I will get into acting so early in my life. Studies were my focus. Acting at this point of time was unexpected and I am simply going in the direction that life is taking me.
Has there been any change in your life from the time you bagged this role?
My life has completely changed. Earlier, my life was very chilled out but now I have goals to achieve. I am taking my career very seriously as I want to give my best to the show. I have the pressure to prove myself. There are times when I feel like going back to my class room, meeting my teachers and hanging out with my friends but I can't do that anymore. I really miss my family and even they are missing me. At the same time I am happy to have got such a big opportunity of playing a lead in Meet Mila De…
Do you have any one special in your life?
No as I want to focus on my career. With my studies and acting in Meet Mila…., I have no time for love.
How was it acting with experienced and talented actors like Raza Murad, Rajeshwari Sachdev?
I was very nervous on the first day of shoot, especially looking at them. But the minute I started working with them, I felt comfortable as they are so co-operative, helpful and down- to- earth. In spite of being so talented and senior, they are humble.
How has the journey been so far?
It has been very exciting. Every day is a learning experience to me.
Now that there is a strike going on how are you spending your free time?
I am utilising this time to work on my grooming. I am taking care of my beauty and fitness. I am also working towards improving my acting skills.
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