'People say I look like a Malayali'-Huma

Decked up in a Kerala sari and jasmine flowers in her hair, Huma Qureshi looked very much at home on the set of her upcoming Malayalam movie, White.

Even as she tried to learn her dialogues and get the emotions right, she was cool, calm and collected. Though pressed for time, the Bollywood actress gave a few moments to Kochi Times for a light-hearted conversation, to share the experiences of her first project in Mollywood, directed by Uday Ananthan. Excerpts:


What led to the decision to work in Malayalam? I am always on the lookout for projects that push my limits. It can be in the form of learning a new language, picking up a new skill and so on. In the case of White, I loved the film's script. Moreover, I have been a huge fan of Mammukka and always wanted to act with him. When I heard he is part of the movie, I immediately said yes. Later, they came to me with the script, which is very well-written. So, I had to do it.

Tell us about your role I can't divulge much... My character's name is Roshni Menon. She has a middle- class background and her own set of dreams. She meets an older, accomplished man, who has seen the world. Their encounter changes each other's lives. He helps her become more outgoing and see the world differently, and she helps him believe in love, again.

You are just back from London after the film's first schedule. Tell us about the experience. London was nice, but the shooting was tough! We were shooting there in winter and it was freezing. However, as the film is a love story and tender elements about it made our experience beautiful, despite the trying weather.

How is it working with Mammootty? I don't speak Malayalam, but still don't want to fumble, get my lines wrong, or give a misplaced expression. What Mammukka does best is help me with that, by giving many great tips. There were times I was stuck without remembering a line or knowing the proper expression, and he would explain them to me sweetly. It's a pleasure working with senior actors as you learn a lot.

You hardly seem to follow the beaten path when it comes to picking characters. Is it a deliberate move? I like to work on a wide-range of characters. It's as simple as this " I just select the most interesting roles that are offered to me. I do films that I would love to go and watch as a movie-buff. See, there is no deliberate attempt to move away from conventional cinema. It's also important that you give the audience something new and different, so that we don't bore them. I always make an effort to give something extra to make my roles interesting.

How would you compare Bollywood and Malayalam industry? I have watched many Malayalam films but can't remember the names now, and sorry, I might mispronounce them.

The subjects taken up for movies in Mollywood are interestingly complex and emotional dramas that I really gravitate towards. The subjects are also handled sensitively, which I think we should learn in Bollywood.

How does it feel carrying off a Kerala sari for the movie? This is the first time I'm trying out the attire and everyone tells me I look quite like a Malayali, which makes me very happy. This is the first time I am playing a Malayali girl and no need to say I am loving it. I am eager to know how everyone loves my new look! You know, I am very happy when people appreciate my work and accept me as their own.

Did you get time to check out Kerala? It's my first visit to the State, and this is my second day here. I have only seen my hotel room so far and I hope to go out sometime and eat some Kerala food. I love the local food of Kerala.

Rumors are rife that you are playing Jwala Gutta in Bollywood film, Azhar...I'm not playing Jwala Gutta. Yeah, people wanted me to be part of it, but no. It's just one of those online things written about me which is not true.