Sandalwood actor Sonu Gowda is excited about her first biopic film, namely ‘Shalini IPS’. After doing varied characters, the young actor portrays a more mature look for the first time. In a candid chat with Tini Sara Anien, she talks about her role and more.
Tell us about your role...
I am playing Shalini, an IAS officer who faces trials and tribulations not from outside but from inside the administrative system.
What is different about this role?
The role required a lot of physical activity including varied exercises, archery and shooting. It was a learning experience and I am very excited about how it will roll out. I also have to do a march past which was interesting.
Did you face any challenges?
The body language and mannerisms matter a lot here compared to delivering lines. I have to emote a lot through my eyes which is far more challenging than speaking words onscreen. I couldn’t be a typical heroine for this role. My director Nikhil Manju helped me a lot. Initially, it was tough and I used more takes.
What was most difficult?
I am playing a real and inspiring character and doing justice to the person’s character mattered a lot to me.
Acting in a biopic is every actor’s dream now. How do you feel?
Though every movie demands one to portray someone else, it felt great to be someone who was so inspiring. I was doubtful about why I was chosen for the role but I am excited that the project is almost done. The costume and makeup helped me fit into the character. We started in April and have 15 days of shooting left. I am really excited.
Are realistic scripts difficult to work on?
A lot of things come into consideration when it is a real story. I am super thrilled as I wasn’t expected to act but live the role. Everything has to be very natural.
Have you interacted with Shalini Rajneesh IAS?
I have met her a couple of times and spoken to her. She was excited to know that we were working on a movie on her. She is a phenomenal person. She kept encouraging me to enjoy working in the role and do whatever the role needed me to do. I was nervous when I met her the first time but it has always been pleasant meeting her.
Something you imbibed from her?
It is not easy to do such a role with such ease. I have never seen her get angry or displeased with anyone. Despite the number of people she interacts with on a daily basis, she always maintains her composure and is a very patient person. I have always seen her with her bright smile.
Is this your first women-centric role?
No. I had worked in ‘Kiragoorina Gayyaligalu’ earlier. It is a nice feeling to be working on a strong subject but I don’t want to be typecast. I have been seen in different films like ‘Gultoo’ and I want to continue doing that.
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