i prefer film:amrita-artical

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Amrita Prakash (TOI Photo) More pics

What made you shift focus to films?

I have never really shifted to films. It's not an 'either or' case for me. I would always be interested in doing television and films. But it is true that post Vivah, I wanted to do more films.

So, what took you away from the serial, Har Ghar Kuch Kehta Hai?

I bagged the lead role in Har Ghar.... My character was a rebel. But then, after a certain point, the character wasn't going anywhere. And then Rajshri's Ek Vivaah Aisi Bhi and Sanjeev Khandelwal's World of Fashion happened. Naturally, I made the best of the opportunities.

So, you haven't quit television?

No, I haven't, though I must admit, that I prefer films.

You started off with television. Was it after whetting your appetite on the small screen that you wanted to take the 'big' plunge?

It wasn't exactly that. I knew that I wanted to be an actor. For me, doing good work is the only
factor.

But with you being open to films and the telly, aren't you apprehensive of over exposure?

I might have to choose at some point in my career. But at present, I don't think I have got there yet.

First Vivah and now Ek Vivah ... you seem to be a favourite with the Rajshri's. What's the story?

(Laughs) Honestly, there's no story to it. After Vivah, I was hoping against hope that they cast me for another project. When I got the offer for this film, I was elated.

Rajshri's are known for their mushy movies and flawless characters. Ever worried that you might be left with miss goody-two-shoes kind of roles?

That doesn't bother me in the least. And I have no problem being tagged so. In fact, after Vivah, I was offered the rebellious role in Har Ghar.... I used to worry once, but not any more.

When you give your nod to a role, what do you look for in it?

My character has to be important to the script. I will not do any blink-and-miss roles. I am certainly not ready to be another prop in the film.

Suppose you say no to a big banner because you aren't satisfied with your character. Don't you feel you will be taking on their wrath too?

Not really. If anyone chooses not to cast me in their project because I had said no to them once, it would be immature on their part. I wouldn't let it bother me much.

Considering that you have played sister to Amrita Rao in Vivah and will play the same to Ishaa Koppikar in Ek Vivah... do you think character roles will help you get the lead?

I can't really say where such roles are going to take me. But if I can leave a mark on the role, then people are bound to take notice.

With your kitty filled with film offers, anything to look forward to in television?

Sadly, as of now, I have no dates for the telly.

Khandelwal is doing his film with a host of freshers. Considering that you are the experienced one in the team, will you be playing teacher to any newcomer?

No acting tip from me, please. I never try to stick my nose in somebody else's job. But if anyone asks for any help, I am more than willing to do so.

And how do you plan to stand out in the fresher crowd?

I will prefer that my work does the talking.

With Madhur Bhandarkar also making a film on fashion, aren't you scared of parallels being drawn between the two ventures?

I agree that both are on the same theme, but I have been told that Sanjeev's film is different in terms of story. I play an aspiring fashion designer here. The film deals with her struggles in the industry. It certainly harps on an optimistic approach.

You are 20 and pursuing your B Com finals. How do you balance study and work?

Don't even ask. It drives me crazy, things get so maddening at times! But since I have been doing it from the age of four, I have learnt to handle things now.

So you are a child actor. Ever bothered by the careergraphs of other such actors?

It doesn't bother me whether I will be successful or a failure. Things can't be predetermined. If you are cut out for the part, things will work out too.

What if it turns otherwise? Any contingency plans?

I would have my degrees to fall back on. And I would also like to test my luck on the telly.

Wearing skimpy outfits and being able to deliver intimate scenes onscreen are considered an actor's job. How comfortable are you with the propositions?

I will only do roles I am comfortable essaying. No such propositions for me, please.

At a time when even Esha Deol had to reinvent her look with a Dhoom , aren't you afraid of paying dearly?
I don't mind losing work.