Sonu Gowda will play Shalini IAS onscreen

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.