'Boyfriend? A headache!'

28 September,2009 07:11 AM IST |   |  Manju Shettar

Aaridra Raj talks to HiT LiST about how she made it from the ramp to the screen, and all the challenges of the transition


Aaridra Raj talks to HiT LiST about how she made it from the ramp to the screen, and all the challenges of the transition

Model-turned-actress Aaridra Raj is upbeat about her performance in her debut Kannada film Premagami. She tells MiD DAY all about competing with Mumbai beauties and keeping boyfriends at bay.

Tough Contest: Aaridra Raj is ready to take on Mumbai beauties


How did a ramp model turn you to the big screen?
I was very enthusiastic about acting in my childhood and I started out doing ramp shows. I also performed for the cultural events at Seshadripuram College, and later Mount Carmel College. I was selected for the auditions of Kannada films Porki and Punda. I also did some Tamil film auditions. I finally got a break in Premagami as the lead opposite newcomer Abhi.


Tell us about Premagami.
Premagami is about four characters going on a quest for love Richa, John, Abhi and me. It begins against a college backdrop and I play an innocent artist with whom a boy is flirting. We are all busy rehearsing for the film now.

What are the challenges for newcomers like you in the Kannada film industry?
The industry wants looks and talent, and has lots of expectations. Anyway, we newcomers should be prepared and should have an idea about movie techniquesu2026 that gives us confidence. It is not as colourful as we dream... Mumbai beauties have better opportunities here because they are highly talented and have well-toned looks.

What do you think about recent Kannada hits?
Glamour is getting more importance than performance. Recently I saw Raj the Showman... It didn't meet audience expectations and the story was not so impressive. I am a big fan of Puneeth but I was disappointed.

Any particular role you'd like to play?
I expect roles where I can show my talent. I liked Ramya Krishna's role in Padaiyappa and I would also love to do such negative characters.

Are you keen about fitness?
I love swimming and I jog, diet, and do yoga every day. But I have to tone up a little more.

New actresses have supportive boyfriends. Do you have one?
No way. Having a boyfriend is a big headache... I can't handle a boyfriend and concentrate on my profession at the same time. I have also seen that most boys are possessive... I am not thinking of a boyfriend now.
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Aaridra Raj model-turned-actress South Splash interviews Premagami