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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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
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.
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