I Love to Pat My Own Back Whenever I Do Things Right

For me, the process is essential. Living each moment to the fullest is what I practice and believe in. Most importantly, I keep the child in me alive.

1. Tell us about your background and journey.

I was born and brought up in the Doon Valley with the Himalayas on one side and Shivaliks on the other. The Ganges flowing on one side and Yamuna on the other side. With an elder Sister and an elder brother.

I was born in a Rajput family but not so conservative, unorthodox upbringing and I knew my limits. Good sanskars, beautiful childhood memories, I will always cherish and be super happy about. I was allowed to do whatever I wanted.

Being the youngest in my family, I was pampered a lot. My family was always inclined towards Sports. Hence, I am a sports lover. I have been a national level BasketBall player and have been an active sports girl during my school and college.

My father passed away when I was 11 and my elder brother was like my father figure. My Ma, my sister and my brother have been the pillars of my life. I would see a helicopter flying above my home and would want to be a pilot.

I would come across a super kind Doctor and I would want to be a Doctor, curing and serving people. Then I came down to being an IPS officer, inspired by Kiran Bedi. I wanted to be like her. I saw this show on TV called Udaan and I wanted to be a supercop. But life had chosen a different path for me.

I did ramp shows in Dehradun locally and then joined a theatre workshop. I was always active in dance, drama shows in school. So thought of doing theatre during college.

I got married to Alok Ulfat who was conducting the workshop and then we just came to Mumbai for a holiday. I met a few friends who were in the media. Alok used to teach at the TIE of NSD. So he had many friends here.

Then I got to do an ad in Delhi. I loved the whole scene, the way shooting happens, the language, the people, the process and then I decided that this is the road I want to tread on. Luckily, I was supported by my family and my husband. So, Mumbai happened.

2. Did you ever think or dream of being an actor?

Not really. Like I said had many dreams but I feel I could have been a sportswoman if I had opportunities in Doon. But I remember my Nani used to say that I am a complete nautanki and yes, I have done drama in school and have won best actress as well in school dramatic competitions.

So yes, I had all the qualities and talent to be an Actor. I was good in theatre, loved acting and doing plays but professionally, never thought of it.

3. How can one approach their career and have the confidence and belief to become an actor?

Firstly, you need to be super sure what you want and wish in life. Some people do not know and just come to Mumbai for fame, money and glamour but I always feel that you need to be strong internally as well to come to a big city.

Strive for your dreams. Achieve but stay grounded and humble. Do not lose yourself in the glittery shine of the glamour. As far as confidence is concerned, what you really want to do in life, what makes you happy, will by default bring confidence in you. As that is what you wish to and want to and aspire for.

You just need to be focused, honest, sincere and have your head and heart in the right place. It's very easy get swayed away but I have had the strength and the right-thinking which my parents and my family has given me. It has always helped me to move forward in the right way.

For me, the process is essential. Sleeping soundly at night after a good honest work is important. Living each moment to the fullest is what I practice and believe in and very important I keep the child alive in me.

4. If not this, what would you be doing?

A sportswoman, an IPS officer or maybe a teacher.

5. For a complete outsider with inroads, what advice would you like to give?

Be honest and focused. Don't lose yourself in reaching your goals. Your integrity, self respect and esteem are very important. You should do things where you are proud of yourself. I love to pat my own back whenever I do things right. Love yourself. It's very important.

6. What is your mantra of success?

Always be a student. A learner who would learn and unlearn and be happy. Optimism is one my biggest strengths.

7. Which is your favourite book and why?

The Kite runner by Khalid Hosseini. It's a beautiful journey of a little boy and his struggle in his country. His travel to another world, different from his. His circumstances and his process of adaptability and finally his quest to find his roots.

It's a beautiful story. It's sad, devastating but at the same time, it's strong and inspiring too. KH has written the book so simply and beautifully. I can read it any time and feel so many emotions in me.

Interview by - Shruti Kaval