WORK IN PROGRESS
ELENA: MY HINDI WILL ALWAYS BE Elena Fernandes says she’s consistently working on perfecting the language
London-born Elena Fernandes’ Bollywood journey has been both fulfilling and challenging. The actor, who is half Indian and half South American, says the one thing she works very hard at in order to better her prospects in the industry, is her Hindi.
“My Hindi will always be work in progress. I feel I’ve improved, but I will let the public be the judge of it. My understanding has definitely improved and I consistently make efforts to work on my Hindi and improve,” shares Fernandes.
The model-turned-actor made her acting debut in Kapoor and Sons (2016), and went on to do films such as Housefull 4, Badla (both 2019) and Laxmii (2020). She will be next seen in Ek Villain Returns, for which she’s been shooting amid the pandemic.
“Considering the uncertainty with restrictions and lockdown, filming went very smoothly,” she reveals, adding, “Due to the restrictions, my schedule was split between Mumbai and Goa. It’s a pleasure to be working under the direction of Mohit Suri and with such a great star cast. As an actor, this film has provided me with a lot of range, which is imperative for growth.”
Shooting during a health scare with so many restrictions in place, the 34-year-old admits, is a new experience altogether.
“Sets are much smaller. It is understandable, but is also worrying for those who have worked on films their whole life that rely on film work, from spot boys to set members. I hope, with the support the film community is providing, that sets can return to full capacity soon, so that staff can get their incomes back,” she adds.
Fernandes goes on to reveal that the shoot of the film, which also stars Disha Patani, Tara Sutaria, Arjun Kapoor and John Abraham, has crossed the halfway mark.
“I have been working closely with Tara and Arjun. Both are extremely talented and such kind people. Everyone on set is super lovely, from production to the camera crew to the spot boys. You work closely every single day for very long hours, so it is important to have a positive, fun environment. It makes the experience better for all that way,” she concludes.