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| "The constant drive to grow and improve is what keeps me motivated. While it’s important to be happy with what you’ve achieved, I believe you shouldn’t let yourself become overly content or complacent in your career." |
1. Lekha, you’ve had an impressive career, from modeling and pageants to acting in Bollywood films and TV shows. Could you walk us through your journey and what inspired you to make the leap from modeling to acting?
The journey from modeling to acting has been a fascinating one, filled with its fair share of ups and downs—moments of doubt, achievements, criticism, and applause. It has been a very personal and unique experience because I come from a completely non-film background. Every step of this journey has been my own. I didn’t have a godfather in the industry or even a mentor during my modeling career. I’ve navigated it all on my own, learning from both my failures and successes, which have shaped the person I am today.
When I started, I wasn’t professionally trained. I learned as I went along. While modeling, I realized that it was a short-term career. The industry constantly seeks fresh faces, and I knew that if I wanted long-term sustainability, I needed to transition into something more enduring. That’s when the idea of acting struck me.
At the time, I had no idea how different acting was from modeling. I wasn’t even entirely sure what I wanted to do, but I knew one thing for certain—I wanted to work in front of the camera. Acting eventually became my calling, and I decided to pursue it wholeheartedly.
2. You’ve worked on a diverse range of projects, from big-budget Bollywood films like iSmart Shankar and Fukrey 3 to web series like City of Dreams and Crimes & Confessions. How do you choose your roles, and what kind of characters are you most drawn to?
All the films and projects I’ve been a part of—be it The Big Bull, iSmart Shankar, Rafuchakkar with Maniesh Paul, or City of Dreams (from Season 2 to Season 3)—were opportunities I secured through the audition process. As actors, we’re often on the receiving end of opportunities, and everything I’ve done so far has been the result of auditions, screen tests, and look tests. It’s a thorough process, but it has shaped my journey beautifully.
When it comes to choosing roles, we actors typically receive a narration or a scene. The decision to take up a role doesn’t rely on a rigid checklist but rather on how the character resonates with me.
I approach it from a third-person perspective: If I were watching a film or web series, would this character intrigue me? Would I want to see their story unfold? For example, Meryl Streep’s character in The Devil Wears Prada has a grey shade, but it’s undeniably compelling. That’s the kind of impact I look for in a character—whether it’s positive, negative, or somewhere in between.
Ultimately, it boils down to gut feeling. When I hear a narration or read a script for the first time, my instincts tell me everything I need to know. While there might be external factors and combinations at play, your inner voice never lies. That initial feeling is what I trust, and if it excites or intrigues me, I wholeheartedly go for it.
3. Being a model before entering the acting world, do you feel that your experience on the ramp and in beauty pageants has influenced your approach to acting, particularly in front of the camera?
Yes, my modeling career has definitely helped me in my acting journey. One of the biggest advantages was that I became comfortable with the camera long before I transitioned into acting. Working in front of the camera as a model gave me a solid foundation—it taught me how to present myself and understand the nuances of being on-screen.
Additionally, my experience on the ramp taught me a lot about people management. As a model, you’re constantly interacting with a variety of individuals, including other models, event managers, choreographers, designers, makeup artists, and hairstylists. Whether it’s working one-on-one or as part of a team, you learn to communicate and collaborate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Walking the ramp itself is an incredible training ground. When you’re at the head of the ramp, with thousands of cameras focused on you, every step, movement, and gesture is being captured. You’re not just walking—you’re showcasing a designer’s vision, conveying the vibe of the event, and paying attention to every minute detail.
All of this helped me feel more confident and comfortable in front of the camera when I transitioned to acting. It gave me an edge, allowing me to focus more on the craft of acting without being overwhelmed by the technicalities of facing the camera.
4. You were a part of the popular talent show India’s Next Superstar. How did the experience of competing on a national platform shape your perspective on the entertainment industry?
Yes, I was part of the show India’s Next Superstar, judged by Rohit Shetty and Karan Johar. Mahesh Bhatt sir and Mukesh Chhabra sir also played a significant role in training us during the show. It was an incredible experience, and those 2–3 months were completely immersive.
Ultimately, it boils down to gut feeling. When I hear a narration or read a script for the first time, my instincts tell me everything I need to know. While there might be external factors and combinations at play, your inner voice never lies. That initial feeling is what I trust, and if it excites or intrigues me, I wholeheartedly go for it.
3. Being a model before entering the acting world, do you feel that your experience on the ramp and in beauty pageants has influenced your approach to acting, particularly in front of the camera?
Yes, my modeling career has definitely helped me in my acting journey. One of the biggest advantages was that I became comfortable with the camera long before I transitioned into acting. Working in front of the camera as a model gave me a solid foundation—it taught me how to present myself and understand the nuances of being on-screen.
Additionally, my experience on the ramp taught me a lot about people management. As a model, you’re constantly interacting with a variety of individuals, including other models, event managers, choreographers, designers, makeup artists, and hairstylists. Whether it’s working one-on-one or as part of a team, you learn to communicate and collaborate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
Walking the ramp itself is an incredible training ground. When you’re at the head of the ramp, with thousands of cameras focused on you, every step, movement, and gesture is being captured. You’re not just walking—you’re showcasing a designer’s vision, conveying the vibe of the event, and paying attention to every minute detail.
All of this helped me feel more confident and comfortable in front of the camera when I transitioned to acting. It gave me an edge, allowing me to focus more on the craft of acting without being overwhelmed by the technicalities of facing the camera.
4. You were a part of the popular talent show India’s Next Superstar. How did the experience of competing on a national platform shape your perspective on the entertainment industry?
Yes, I was part of the show India’s Next Superstar, judged by Rohit Shetty and Karan Johar. Mahesh Bhatt sir and Mukesh Chhabra sir also played a significant role in training us during the show. It was an incredible experience, and those 2–3 months were completely immersive.
Acting and dancing became our entire existence—we ate, slept, and talked about nothing else. Every moment was focused on honing our skills because the show revolved around showcasing our acting and dancing abilities.
The experience truly helped me grow as an artist. I became a better dancer and actor, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been surrounded by pioneers of the entertainment industry. Rohit sir shared behind-the-scenes stories, like how Golmaal came to life, and his insights were invaluable.
The experience truly helped me grow as an artist. I became a better dancer and actor, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have been surrounded by pioneers of the entertainment industry. Rohit sir shared behind-the-scenes stories, like how Golmaal came to life, and his insights were invaluable.
Karan Johar and Mahesh Bhatt sir taught us a great deal about the art of acting—things that you wouldn’t normally learn elsewhere. For instance, Mahesh sir explained how to act for different types of shots, such as mastering the nuances of a wide shot versus a tight close-up, and even how to “romance” the camera.
These small but crucial lessons had a profound impact on me. I loved every moment of the experience and am so grateful that it happened so early in my career. It has undoubtedly helped me become a better and more confident artist.
5. In addition to acting, you've worked in numerous commercials for big brands. How do you manage the transition between such different kinds of roles – from commercial ads to dramatic, full-length films?
The ad world and the filmmaking world are two completely different segments—they’re like the North Pole and the South Pole. While there are some similarities, the fundamental focus and execution of each are worlds apart.
In the ad world, you’re working on a 30- or 60-second film where the goal is to sell a product. The entire focus is on the product, not the person showcasing it. For example, if you’re selling a shampoo, everything revolves around the shampoo—its texture, benefits, and appeal. The product is the hero or heroine of the ad.
In filmmaking, it’s the exact opposite. As an actor, you are the focal point. You’re the face of the story, bringing the director’s vision to life. Your character drives the narrative, and the film revolves around the emotions and journey you portray.
Despite their differences, there are similarities between the two. Whether it’s an ad film, a web show, or a feature film, being technically sound is crucial. Understanding the basics—like knowing your best profile, how to emote from specific angles, or how lighting affects your performance—is something you develop through experience, especially in the ad world.
Ultimately, I’d say the ad world and the filmmaking world are like two sides of the same coin. They each have their own unique charm and require a different mindset, but both are incredibly rewarding in their own way.
6. The Indian film industry is known for its fast pace and intense competition. What keeps you motivated to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new opportunities in such a demanding field?
There isn’t one specific thing that keeps me going, but I strongly believe that in today’s world—whether it’s the entertainment industry or any other field—everything is evolving at a rapid pace. To keep up, you need to stay on your toes. You can’t afford to be complacent or uninformed, whether it’s about social media, new trends, or advancements in your industry. As artists and individuals, it’s essential to stay aware of what’s happening around us and constantly evolve.
For me, it’s all about setting new milestones. Once I achieve a goal, I immediately set my sights on the next one. This constant drive to grow and improve is what keeps me motivated. While it’s important to be happy with what you’ve achieved, I believe you shouldn’t let yourself become overly content or complacent in your career.
That hunger to learn more, achieve more, and take things to the next level should never fade. It’s that ambition and curiosity that fuel progress—not just for actors, but for everyone. Staying passionate and striving for growth ensures you’re always moving forward and never settling for less than your full potential.
7. From a career perspective, what advice would you give to aspiring models and actors who are just starting out and hoping to make a mark in the industry?
To aspiring models and actors, my biggest advice is simple: don’t wait too long to start—just start. I’ve seen many people say, “I’ll begin in a year” or “I’ll groom myself for two years and then start.” While grooming and preparation are important, don’t let them hold you back for too long. The truth is, no matter how prepared you think you are, once you’re on set, you’ll still feel like a fresher. There will always be so much to learn in real-time.
That said, it’s equally important not to be naive. You need to know your craft and have a clear idea of your goals. For actors, understand the kind of filmmakers you want to collaborate with. For models, research the designers, fashion choreographers, and events like fashion weeks that you aspire to work with. Be aware and prepared, but don’t over-prepare to the point of delaying your start.
This is a career where you learn by doing. It’s not something you can master theoretically—it’s not like solving a math equation where a^2 + b^2 + 2ab = (a+b)^2. In modeling and acting, experience is the best teacher. You grow and improve while working, so the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll begin that journey of learning and evolving.
8. You’ve had the chance to work with a variety of talented actors and filmmakers. Is there one particular collaboration or moment from your career that stands out and has had a lasting impact on you?
Yes, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many talented individuals throughout my career. I started with ad films, where I worked with incredible filmmakers like Ram Madhvani, Amit Sharma, and Suresh Triveni, among others. When it comes to films, I’ve had the honor of collaborating with Nagesh Kukunoor ji, Kuki Gulati, and most recently, with Vishal Pandya ji. Each of these experiences has been truly wonderful and enriching.
While there isn’t one specific moment that stands out above all, there’s a particular feeling that stays with me—when you deliver a scene, and the entire set claps for you. That moment is indescribable. It’s pure magic. In an industry as uncertain and full of insecurities as entertainment, where you’re never quite sure what will work and what won’t, that applause feels like validation.
When you’re surrounded by 60–70 people on set, all of whom are genuinely happy and smiling because of your performance, it feels like a personal victory. It’s a moment of contentment as an artist—a reassurance that you’re on the right path. No one can take that feeling away from you, and it’s those moments that make all the hard work truly worth it.
9. As someone with a background in both modeling and acting, how do you balance the pressure of looking a certain way with the desire to be taken seriously as an actor?
When people say looks don’t matter, I think that’s not entirely true—looks do matter, but not in the conventional way people often think. Maintaining your body is important, but that doesn’t mean achieving six-pack abs or a perfect bikini body. It’s not about conforming to a specific standard of beauty.
These small but crucial lessons had a profound impact on me. I loved every moment of the experience and am so grateful that it happened so early in my career. It has undoubtedly helped me become a better and more confident artist.
5. In addition to acting, you've worked in numerous commercials for big brands. How do you manage the transition between such different kinds of roles – from commercial ads to dramatic, full-length films?
The ad world and the filmmaking world are two completely different segments—they’re like the North Pole and the South Pole. While there are some similarities, the fundamental focus and execution of each are worlds apart.
In the ad world, you’re working on a 30- or 60-second film where the goal is to sell a product. The entire focus is on the product, not the person showcasing it. For example, if you’re selling a shampoo, everything revolves around the shampoo—its texture, benefits, and appeal. The product is the hero or heroine of the ad.
In filmmaking, it’s the exact opposite. As an actor, you are the focal point. You’re the face of the story, bringing the director’s vision to life. Your character drives the narrative, and the film revolves around the emotions and journey you portray.
Despite their differences, there are similarities between the two. Whether it’s an ad film, a web show, or a feature film, being technically sound is crucial. Understanding the basics—like knowing your best profile, how to emote from specific angles, or how lighting affects your performance—is something you develop through experience, especially in the ad world.
Ultimately, I’d say the ad world and the filmmaking world are like two sides of the same coin. They each have their own unique charm and require a different mindset, but both are incredibly rewarding in their own way.
6. The Indian film industry is known for its fast pace and intense competition. What keeps you motivated to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new opportunities in such a demanding field?
There isn’t one specific thing that keeps me going, but I strongly believe that in today’s world—whether it’s the entertainment industry or any other field—everything is evolving at a rapid pace. To keep up, you need to stay on your toes. You can’t afford to be complacent or uninformed, whether it’s about social media, new trends, or advancements in your industry. As artists and individuals, it’s essential to stay aware of what’s happening around us and constantly evolve.
For me, it’s all about setting new milestones. Once I achieve a goal, I immediately set my sights on the next one. This constant drive to grow and improve is what keeps me motivated. While it’s important to be happy with what you’ve achieved, I believe you shouldn’t let yourself become overly content or complacent in your career.
That hunger to learn more, achieve more, and take things to the next level should never fade. It’s that ambition and curiosity that fuel progress—not just for actors, but for everyone. Staying passionate and striving for growth ensures you’re always moving forward and never settling for less than your full potential.
7. From a career perspective, what advice would you give to aspiring models and actors who are just starting out and hoping to make a mark in the industry?
To aspiring models and actors, my biggest advice is simple: don’t wait too long to start—just start. I’ve seen many people say, “I’ll begin in a year” or “I’ll groom myself for two years and then start.” While grooming and preparation are important, don’t let them hold you back for too long. The truth is, no matter how prepared you think you are, once you’re on set, you’ll still feel like a fresher. There will always be so much to learn in real-time.
That said, it’s equally important not to be naive. You need to know your craft and have a clear idea of your goals. For actors, understand the kind of filmmakers you want to collaborate with. For models, research the designers, fashion choreographers, and events like fashion weeks that you aspire to work with. Be aware and prepared, but don’t over-prepare to the point of delaying your start.
This is a career where you learn by doing. It’s not something you can master theoretically—it’s not like solving a math equation where a^2 + b^2 + 2ab = (a+b)^2. In modeling and acting, experience is the best teacher. You grow and improve while working, so the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll begin that journey of learning and evolving.
8. You’ve had the chance to work with a variety of talented actors and filmmakers. Is there one particular collaboration or moment from your career that stands out and has had a lasting impact on you?
Yes, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with many talented individuals throughout my career. I started with ad films, where I worked with incredible filmmakers like Ram Madhvani, Amit Sharma, and Suresh Triveni, among others. When it comes to films, I’ve had the honor of collaborating with Nagesh Kukunoor ji, Kuki Gulati, and most recently, with Vishal Pandya ji. Each of these experiences has been truly wonderful and enriching.
While there isn’t one specific moment that stands out above all, there’s a particular feeling that stays with me—when you deliver a scene, and the entire set claps for you. That moment is indescribable. It’s pure magic. In an industry as uncertain and full of insecurities as entertainment, where you’re never quite sure what will work and what won’t, that applause feels like validation.
When you’re surrounded by 60–70 people on set, all of whom are genuinely happy and smiling because of your performance, it feels like a personal victory. It’s a moment of contentment as an artist—a reassurance that you’re on the right path. No one can take that feeling away from you, and it’s those moments that make all the hard work truly worth it.
9. As someone with a background in both modeling and acting, how do you balance the pressure of looking a certain way with the desire to be taken seriously as an actor?
When people say looks don’t matter, I think that’s not entirely true—looks do matter, but not in the conventional way people often think. Maintaining your body is important, but that doesn’t mean achieving six-pack abs or a perfect bikini body. It’s not about conforming to a specific standard of beauty.
What I mean is that you need to take care of your body, your face, and your voice, because these are the tools you use to express emotions and bring a character to life in front of the camera.
As an actor, your body and voice are your bread and butter. Taking care of your health is essential. You can be an incredibly beautiful person and still be a serious and respected actor. Look at performers like Deepika Padukone or Alia Bhatt—they’re stunning, yet their strong, nuanced performances have earned them immense respect in the industry. So, the notion that beautiful people can’t be serious actors—or that serious actors must look a certain way—is a complete myth.
More than superficial looks, I believe it’s about being healthy. If you’re unwell or not taking care of your body, how can you perform on set? Health and self-care are vital—not just for actors but for everyone. It’s important to care for your skin, nails, overall well-being, because it’s your body that supports you in everything you do.
At the end of the day, you’re born with your body, and it’s yours to embrace. Own it, take care of it, and let it empower you to perform and live your best life.
10. Finally, a fun one: If you could swap lives with any character you’ve played on screen for a day, who would it be and why?
If I could swap lives with a character, it would be with two very interesting ones I’ve played. The first one is Vinita Pathania from Rafuchakkar. She’s the daughter of a chief minister, living a life of luxury with all the fancy cars, and her biggest concerns are when her next Pilates session is or when her nail appointment is scheduled. She’s the quintessential South Delhi or Bombay girl, enjoying a life of privilege and comfort. I think it would be fun to experience that glamorous lifestyle for a change.
The second character is from another project called Terminator, where I play a hacker. But not just any hacker—she’s an ethical hacker, using her skills for good, solving problems in a tech-savvy, almost secretive way. She lives a life of adventure and high-tech intrigue, navigating the digital world with a thrill.
So, if I had the chance, I’d probably swap my life with one of these two characters—or maybe even both! Each has her own unique world, and it would be fascinating to step into their shoes.
As an actor, your body and voice are your bread and butter. Taking care of your health is essential. You can be an incredibly beautiful person and still be a serious and respected actor. Look at performers like Deepika Padukone or Alia Bhatt—they’re stunning, yet their strong, nuanced performances have earned them immense respect in the industry. So, the notion that beautiful people can’t be serious actors—or that serious actors must look a certain way—is a complete myth.
More than superficial looks, I believe it’s about being healthy. If you’re unwell or not taking care of your body, how can you perform on set? Health and self-care are vital—not just for actors but for everyone. It’s important to care for your skin, nails, overall well-being, because it’s your body that supports you in everything you do.
At the end of the day, you’re born with your body, and it’s yours to embrace. Own it, take care of it, and let it empower you to perform and live your best life.
10. Finally, a fun one: If you could swap lives with any character you’ve played on screen for a day, who would it be and why?
If I could swap lives with a character, it would be with two very interesting ones I’ve played. The first one is Vinita Pathania from Rafuchakkar. She’s the daughter of a chief minister, living a life of luxury with all the fancy cars, and her biggest concerns are when her next Pilates session is or when her nail appointment is scheduled. She’s the quintessential South Delhi or Bombay girl, enjoying a life of privilege and comfort. I think it would be fun to experience that glamorous lifestyle for a change.
The second character is from another project called Terminator, where I play a hacker. But not just any hacker—she’s an ethical hacker, using her skills for good, solving problems in a tech-savvy, almost secretive way. She lives a life of adventure and high-tech intrigue, navigating the digital world with a thrill.
So, if I had the chance, I’d probably swap my life with one of these two characters—or maybe even both! Each has her own unique world, and it would be fascinating to step into their shoes.
Bio :
Hailing from the vibrant city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, and now making waves in Mumbai, Lekha Prajapati is a rising star in Indian cinema. With her remarkable versatility, she has carved a niche across Bollywood, Mollywood, and Tollywood, impressing audiences with stellar performances in Fukrey 3 (2023), Project 9191 (2021), and iSmart Shankar (2019), among many others.
Beyond films, Lekha has mesmerized fans through her work in music videos, showcasing her expressive artistry. She is also an active presence in the creative circuit, frequently judging college events and inspiring the next generation of talent. With an undeniable screen presence, an ever-evolving craft, and exciting projects on the horizon, Lekha continues to establish herself as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
Interviewed by: Shivam Sharma
Edited by : Shivam Sharma
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