'Marriage has only made things better'

Accomplished danseuse Ragini Chandran is debuting as an actor in the Kannada film industry, with a short film titled ‘Rishabhapriya’, slated to release in early August. Ragini, who is primarily trained in kathak, later ventured into zumba in a big way. She says that acting was never on the cards but when a script that perfectly fit into her tight schedule came her way, she just went ahead. In an interview with Nina C George, Ragini talks about how she plans to take forward her love for dance and acting.

What made you sign ‘Rishabhapriya’?

I’ve been modelling for the last three-and-a-half years now. Movie offers have always been coming my way but I’ve never felt the urge to take them up because acting was never on my mind. ‘Rishabhapriya’ is a short film with an interesting subject. It perfectly fit into my schedule.

What made you choose a short film to make a debut in the Kannada film industry?

I am essentially a dancer and I run my own dance studio. I am not taking up any project with a long schedule. The shooting for this short film wrapped up in just three days, so I agreed.

Tell us more about ‘Rishabhapriya’.

‘Rishabhapriya’ also happens to be the name of a ‘raaga’. The story revolves around Rishab and Priya. These two characters make their decisions based on their passion but life offers them something else.

Did Prajwal help you finalise the script?

Prajwal was the first one to listen to the script. He found it to be an interesting one and told me that this project would be a good learning experience.

Will we see you working in more films?

I have nothing planned but if something good comes my way, then why not!

Why don’t Prajwal and you act together?

I would definitely love to act with Prajwal. We have been offered a couple of scripts but nothing was worth taking up.

How do you stay fit?

I dance for about six to eight hours a day and that keeps me fit. Thanks to dance, I haven’t entered a gym till date.

Dance to you is...

Dance is an art and I believe in art. I believe in connecting with people through this medium.

How has the dance scene changed in Bengaluru?

There are more and more passionate young dancers who are looking forward to making a career in dance. Youngsters are not looking at it as a hobby anymore.

Has marriage changed anything?

Marriage has only made things better for me. My in-laws are very supportive and Prajwal, being by my side, has helped me grow.