'Language should never be a barrier'

Actor Salony Luthra’s performance in her debut film ‘Sarabham’ have earned her  accolades. This opened many doors for her in the film industry. Soon, she was seen in a Tamil short film titled ‘Oliyum Oliyum’ where she played the role of a visually impaired person. She also received a standing ovation for her performance at the Chicago Film Festival in 2016.  

In a conversation with Surupasree Sarmmah, the actor talks about her upcoming project ‘Kajal’, her debut film and more.
 

You are a business graduate. How did you turn to acting?
I was always interested in performing arts. However, coming from a family of lawyers and engineers, it took me two years to break the news to them. I pursued business studies as a backup plan since I wasn’t sure if acting would click for me. When I was in London for the course, I watched a lot of theatre and it made me happy. I knew it was my calling. 

Tell us about your upcoming short film ‘Kajal’.
Women tend to adjust a lot, not realising that they are compromising on their own life and happiness. This movie is about finding one’s inner strength and happiness that the society tries to control. It’s about the inner power that every woman has within herself. 

Do you feel this film is a small step towards women’s empowerment?
Yes, hopefully. The main idea is to screen this movie in schools, colleges and other social platforms and help change the way people think about women. The demarcations that we, as a society, have made between genders should hopefully fade away with this film.  

Did you ever think that your first film ‘Sarabham’ would become such a big hit?
Honestly, belonging to the North, I never thought I would make my debut with a Tamil movie. However, the script was amazing and I just gave in to it. Language should never be a barrier for an actor. I am so grateful that I got such an amazing response considering I was a newcomer.

Any plans for Bollywood? 
Of course! We have some great cinema coming out these days. 

An actor you would like to work with.
Irrfan Khan, solely because he is a fantastic actor and I would love to learn from him. He is a semi-institute in himself. Ranbir Kapoor is another person. He is genuine in his performances and extremely passionate about his craft. 

The turning point in your life...
I would say ‘Kajal’. After the film was completed, I sensed a shift in myself both as an actor and as an individual. I started a new journey with this movie. 

Any projects in the pipeline?
Right now, I am waiting for my American film ‘Forbidden’ to release. I am working on a play too, which should be out later this year. 

Other interests apart from acting...
I am an adventurous person. I love trekking and mountaineering and I am also a diver.