‘I don’t regret any of my choices’

Sonakshi Sinha says that she does things on her “terms and conditions”; adds she isn’t “diplomatic” enough to become a politician

Actor Sonakshi Sinha has completed seven years in Bollywood as an actor. She says her decisions of signing projects have been “purely instinctive”, and is now looking forward to playing “more challenging” roles in her upcoming movies. Excerpts from an interview.

Has your criterion of signing films changed over the time? I am looking forward to do the kind of roles, which challenge me in ways that I have not been pushed and challenged before. I don’t regret any of the choices I have made. The kind of reach that I have today is because of the kind of films I have done. Honestly, I have never been under any kind of pressure. I have always done things on my terms and conditions.

Do you ever consult your father (Shatrughan Sinha) while signing new projects? There is always a discussion about the kind of films I am doing or the kinds I would like to be a part of. Sometimes, these are dinner time conversations. I value his opinions as he has been in the industry for many years. His experience is vast and wide. I can always use that to my advantage. I value what my father says.

Your father is also a politician, and you’ve always been vocal about social issues. Do you intend to join politics? No, for that (to become a politician) you need to be diplomatic. I don’t think I will be able to [remain diplomatic] (laughs). As a citizen of the country, I do have my opinion of what is going on. I am aware of what is going on. However, I don’t think that’s enough for me to be a politician; not even the fact that my dad is a politician.

What kind of films do you enjoy as an audience? I enjoy action films and comedies. A lot of no-brainers have been entertaining. And a lot of films that were meant to be entertaining were not. It depends on the film as well. I am open to watching different kinds of cinema. It just has to strike the right chord. I don’t watch a film as an actor or as someone who is connected with the industry. I’ve always watched movies as an audience. If a trailer doesn’t excite me, I won’t watch the film. I am not someone who is critical and finicky. You play a writer in your next film. What’s your take on the Indian media and yellow journalism? The less I say, the better. I really have a lot to say but I won’t. I do feel that they could be a bit more responsible, especially while talking about people’s lives.

What’s your idea of a perfect man? My ideal guy is someone who would understand me, and is supportive of what I do. He has to have a great sense of humour, and he has to be tall.

What kind of men put you off? Someone who is obnoxiously loud, and has a habit of showing off.

Apart from acting, and singing, what are your other interests? I like to paint and sketch.

How do you like to spend your day when you’re not shooting? I like to vegetate (laughs). Maybe watch television or spend time with friends.

What are your favourite TV shows? I watch Suits. It’s an intelligent and well-made show. I am not very fond of Games of Thrones.