On my pinboard - Sharmiela Mandre

Sharmiela Mandre began her career in the Kannada film industry with 'Sajni'. She found her feet after the success of 'Krishna' with Ganesh. Some her other notable films include 'Navagraha', 'Venkata in Sankata', 'Kari Chirathe', 'Dhan Dhana Dhan' and 'Mumtaz.'

She recently acted opposite Chiranjeevi Sarja in 'Aake' and with Shivarajkumar in 'Leader'. Sharmiela will be seen playing the role of a photographer in a yet-to-be-titled Kannada film.

Inspiration
Dr Murali Manohar
"My uncle Dr Murali Manohar has been my mentor and guide. He has been instrumental in shaping my career and has been helping me make the right decisions when it comes to my career. He taught me patience. Another thing that I like about him is that he is an upfront person and doesn't mince words. He says what he thinks. My parents have also inspired me in different ways."

Actor
Audrey Hepburn
"I have always looked up to actor Audrey Hepburn. She has maintained herself well and has inspired many a young actor. Her acting skills are phenomenal and I admire the way she carries herself. There's also a sense of innocence about her that I like. She wonderfully balances her professional life with her commitment towards social work. Her 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' is my all-time favourite."

Author
Paulo Coelho
"I like Paulo Coelho's books because there's a sense of unpredictability about the subjects that he chooses. He always manages to infuse life into his writings. There are a few authors whose work is easily predictable and you know what is coming next, but Paulo has managed to keep that curiosity alive."

Travel
Cappadocia
"Travel is one thing that I spend money on. I don't like visiting the same places again. So I make it a point to explore new destinations. But the one place that I would like to revisit is Cappadocia in Istanbul. The hot air balloon available there takes you around the city and that in itself is an unforgettable experience. Closer home, Coorg is one place that I would like to take off to whenever I get a chance. I go there whenever I want to spend some quiet time."

Food
Thin-crust pizza
"I am a foodie and I love Mexican and Indonesian dishes. But if there is one thing that I can't get enough of it's non-vegetarian thin-crust pizza. That is my comfort food and I generously help myself to it whenever I am feeling low. I also can't resist a South Indian 'thali' and I am also most content with a plate of 'appam and stew'."

Music
Frank Sinatra
"I have always enjoyed listening to Frank Sinatra's songs and I have lost count of the number of times, I have listened to 'Strangers in The Night.' I listen to his songs especially when I am feeling low. It cheers me up. I also enjoy listening to tracks by Michael Jackson, ABBA and Elvis Presley. These musicians have created songs that are timeless and those that one never gets bored of listening to."

(As told to Nina C George)