As real as it gets

While a few actors sign films that challenge the artist in them, actor Tanishaa Mukerji not only does the same but also devotes time for other things such as promoting a clean and green environment through her NGO, ‘Stamp’.

The actor has just essayed a powerful role as a journalist in the biopic based on social activist Anna Hazare. She was thoroughly impressed with Anna and his ideals. Tanishaa has also completed shooting for an Indo-American film in New York. She is in the process of reading and finalising a few more scripts. In an interview with Nina C George, the actor, who was in the city recently, talks about what keeps her going.

What got you to sign the biopic on Anna Hazare?

As an actor, I have always believed in doing varied roles. Any actor would love to do a role like the one I played in the biopic. There’s a visible transformation in the role, from someone who is jaded and not that involved in journalism to someone who gets very involved in what she is doing. I like playing such characters.

What was the best part about working on the project?

The film is very realistic. I saw multiple videos of journalists because there is a certain style in which they speak when they are reporting. They have a rhythm to their language. I had to get that flow. The Hindi they speak is very different from what we usually speak so I had to work very hard to get my pronunciation right and get into the skin of the character.
 
Your thoughts on Anna...

The determination and courage with which Anna  takes forward his pledge and belief is admirable and indeed contagious. His is an absolutely inspiring personality.  

What's your next project?

I’ve just returned after shooting for an Indo-American film in New York. It’s completely different and I am sure the audience is going to love seeing this side of me as an actor.

What is your criteria for signing a project?

For me, it’s never about the medium but the quality of work. I don’t mind doing television as well if there is something exciting.

How was it to work on ‘Bigg Boss’ and ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’?

‘Bigg Boss’ and ‘Khatron Ke Khiladi’ were both very challenging for me.  I would like to work on projects that are unusual and those that offer a learning experience.

If there’s a difference you want to make in the society, what would it be?

Definitely a more green environment! We need more trees around for a balanced living. The climate and air that we are currently living in is horrible, and we all need to become more aware about the ill-effects of global warming! So, for me, trees and plants are saviours in keeping our atmosphere clean.

Life amidst five dogs...

Bliss! I am a dog lover and these aren’t just dogs for me but are my babies. I love them like kids, and they give me all the happiness in the world after a long day at work.

About being in Bengaluru....

I really love Bengaluru for its greenery and everything about the city seems so proper. Mumbai is clearly lacking in green spaces and I think all growing cities must retain its green patch just like Bengaluru.