Upping the ante

Aayush Sharma with Vidya Malvade

With Indian cinema training its focus on action, every actor is clamouring to join the fun. Vidya Malvade, who stopped goals in Chak De India (2007), claims that the Aayush Sharma-starrer Ruslaan is her first brush with action on screen. Stepping into the role of a senior RAW agent, Malvade says she attempted to bring depth and authenticity to her role by weaving a compelling track for her character. "The things I look for in a film are the script, the people, and my character. Ruslaan ticked all boxes beautifully. I was excited to team up with Aayush, Jagapathi [Babu] sir, and director Karan [Lalit Butani]," says the actor, who created lifelong memories on the set of the actioner.

Her banter with Sharma and Butani after filming strenuous action scenes was the highlight of Malvade's experience. "Shooting with these boys was a thrill. Aayush and Karan would often try to pull my leg. The work itself was intense, especially for Aayush, but at the end of the day, we could always have a laugh," shares Malvade. She also believes that taking up Ruslaan was a way to up her game and "stay relevant." "I try not to come across as jaded because of my experience. Being sincere about my character, my craft, and bringing a fresh perspective is what I strive for. The downpour of love from the audience makes this job worth it. You can climb mountains for your audience."