A supermodel, a pageant winner, an accomplished dancer and a talented actress — you name it and she has it. Known to handle a plethora of emotions with ease, Urvashi Rautela has all the trappings of a true-blue artiste. Armed with a charm that no one can resist, Rautela has the nation drooling over her acting skills and stunning looks. An outsider who has steadily made a path for herself, the actress has time and again proved her mettle with versatile roles. Wedding Affair gets candid with the multifaceted actress.
Your fans will love to know you more, tell us something that we don’t know about Urvashi Rautela.
I am a fun loving, chirpy, adventurous person who is loyal and honest towards her work and relationships. I have always been a dedicated individual who loves to work hard towards her goals.
It won’t be wrong to say that you are an all-rounder, what keeps you going?
The passion for my work keeps me going. The love and appreciation that I receive from my fans keeps me going. I have always received lots of encouragement and love from my family and close ones.
From being a beauty queen, winning accolades for the country, to your foray into the Indian film industry; how difficult was the transition?
The transition was not difficult. I was prepared for the leap. I was always into dramatics, so steering the ship towards Bollywood wasn’t a big challenge. Also, I have received immense support from the audience and have been accepted by the industry with open arms. I have won various pageants like ‘Miss Tourism World’, ‘Miss Asian Supermodel’, ‘Miss Tourism Queen’. I am the first woman in history to win the Miss Universe India crown twice.
What is more challenging — modeling or acting?
One can’t compare the two. Both the streams have their own set of learnings and challenges. I have learnt a lot from both. Both the journeys have been quite fulfilling and enriching.
How did acting happen?
In the midst of the Miss Universe India pageant, I was offered ‘Ishaqzaade’ by Aditya Chopra. But I refused as I wanted to focus solely on the pageant. After I won the beauty pageant, I was spotted by director Anil Sharma and was offered ‘Singh Saab The Great’, without even performing a screen test.
You made your debut opposite Sunny Deol, how was it working with such a talented actor?
It was a great experience working with an actor like Sunny Deol. I believe in learning something new every day and being on set with such talented people and working with an acclaimed director like Anil Sharma, was an extremely enriching experience.
In an industry where star kids thrive and survive, how was your experience as an actress trying to chart a path for herself?
Compared to other industries, nepotism is more prevalent in Bollywood. It can be challenging for outsiders to carve a niche for themselves. By God’s grace, I have been presented with the right kind of opportunities. At the end of the day, talent should speak. Healthy competition is always good!
What keeps you motivated to take up challenging and diverse roles?
I strive towards being the best version of myself, I think that is the foundation which keeps me motivated. My goal is to give back to the Indian film industry, the audience and my fans; this keeps me going.
Tell us something about your much anticipated, upcoming project ‘Pagalpanti’.
‘Pagalpanti’ is a comedy film, that can be cherished with your family. Made on a huge set-up, directed by Anees Bazmee and produced by Bhushan Kumar; the film was fun to shoot. We are only left to shoot a promotional song and a remake of Madhuri Dixit’s classic number. I star opposite John Abraham. Being from outside the industry, we bonded really well. He shared with me his initial experiences, working with
Aditya Chopra for ‘Dhoom’ and ‘Kabul Express’. Also, we both love wheels.
How was your experience working with stalwarts like Anil Kapoor, John Abraham and Arshad Warsi?
It was fun to work with an ensemble cast, that too such capable and experienced actors. I was super-excited to work with them. I have learnt a lot from the project. All in all, it was a really memorable experience.
What are the key ingredients of a happy, healthy relationship for you?
(Pauses) I think both the individuals should be loving and respectful towards each other. Unconditional love, trust, respect, care are the pillars of a strong relationship. Also, I do believe in love at first sight (smiles).
Describe your dream wedding.
I am a fan of big fat Indian weddings. I would love to have multiple ceremonies in different countries for my wedding. As I am the only girl in my family, everyone keeps anticipating as to when I’ll get married. My cousins had started planning for the wedding quite a few years ago (laughs).
Quick Bites
Favourite Fragrance: Versace, CHANEL, Dolce & Gabbana
Favourite Beauty Hack: Rubbing ice cubes on face before applying make-up
Web-Series You Would Love To Watch: ‘Stranger Things’
Favourite Book: ‘Act Like A Success’ by Steve Harvey
Timeless Style Icon: My mother
Favourite Film: ‘Mother India’
Favourite Songs: ‘Sanam Re’, ‘Hua Hai Aaj Pehli Baar’ and ‘Haseeno Ka Deewana’
Dream Project: A biopic on Kalpana Chawla or an eminent sports personality
Your Idol: My father
