‘Uri’ saw me in a different avatar, says Yami Gautam

Bollywood actor Yami Gautam was only a few months old in the film industry when she made her debut in Sandalwood opposite Ganesh in ‘Ullasa Utsaha’. Yami, whose most recent release ‘Uri’ got her some good reviews, says that she has always chosen scripts that have scope for performance. In the city recently to walk the ramp for Blenders Pride Magical Nights, Yami takes time off to chat with Metrolife about films, fashion and her fetish for watches.

Do you come to Bengaluru often?
I came here last for a youth summit and usually come for film promotions. We barely get time to do the things that we want to. Sometimes, the schedules are so tight that we end up having lunch or dinner in the car.

Do you like the rushed pace?
As an actor, you have to learn to strike a balance. I don’t mind the rush and pressure that comes with it because I enjoy my work. When I need a break, I usually head out to the hills (not even to my hometown in Chandigarh) because I feel I belong there.

Have you always been choosy about your scripts?
I think we all have the liberty to make a choice. During ‘Vicky Donor’, there were two other films that I had given a screen test for but I chose to go with ‘Vicky Donor’ because I found something in there for me.

What kind of scripts grab your attention?
I am still looking out for roles that push me out of my comfort zone and take me by surprise. ‘Uri’ was very different because it portrayed me in a never-seen-before avatar.

Has language ever been a constraint when choosing a script?
When you don’t know a language you may feel a bit restricted to explore. I am not a trained actor and I don’t come from a family of actors, but I make sure that I thoroughly learn my lines. Everything has been a learning process for me.

Your fashion statement
I believe that you have to own what you wear. I have to feel comfortable and be able to carry off whatever I am wearing, even if it is just a T-Shirt with a simple pair of jeans.

You have a fetish for watches...
I am not a very high maintenance person but a watch is an accessory that never fails you. It goes with both ethnic and western wear. I would always love to add on to my collection of watches.