Sharmila Mandre, who set the screen ablaze with a sizzling rain dance in Venkata in Sankata, insists that she's no bold babe in real life
Sharmila Mandre, who set the screen ablaze with a sizzling rain dance in Venkata in Sankata, insists that she's no bold babe in real life
Sharmila Mandre, who hails from a family of film distributors, says acting has been her childhood passion. Her parents tried dissuading her from a career in films, but when they got to see how determined she was, they encouraged her to join an acting school and go about her career in a professional manner.u00a0u00a0
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Naughty in a nightie: Sharmila Mandre |
Their advice paid off. After graduating from an acting school in London, Sharmila bagged plum roles in Sajani, Krishna, Shivamani and Venkata in Sankata.u00a0
How did formal training in acting help you?I did a one-year course in acting, where I also learnt the basics of cinematography. We had theory and practical classes every day. I enjoyed homework for the first time in my life because it meant watching classic films! I got to savour some truly great films from all over the world. Apart from that, the course equipped me with a great deal of self-confidence.
If not a glamorous actress, you would have been...A lawyer because I love to argue! I scored very well in my PUC exams. My parents were surprised when I told them I wanted a career in films because they were sure I would get a merit seat for a professional course. But when they saw how determined I was, they were there to support me all the way. In fact, they were the ones who insisted that I get formal training before facing the camera.
No flak for the rain dance in Venkata in Sankata?None at all. I was thrilled to be working opposite Ramesh Aravind and I was happy to be doing a comedy track so early in my career. I had enjoyed watching Rama-Shyama-Bhama, Ramesh's earlier film, and working with him was a dream come true. I hope to try out a variety of roles. That would help me grow as an actor.
Your role model?Kajol. She's a complete actress.
You've lost a lot of weight. What's the secret?Gyms bore me! I do a bit of yoga but what really keeps me fit is vigorous games of basket ball and regular swimming. I eat a heavy breakfast but stick to soups and salads for lunch and dinner.
Where do boyfriends feature in such a hectic schedule?Nowhere, right now but my dream boyfriend should be simple. He should have the ability to make me laugh. I'm an old-fashioned romantic. I prefer the guy to woo me with flowers and chocolates. And even if I find a guy hot, you'll never catch me making the first move.
