I’m proud to be Salman Khan’s protege and grateful for it: Daisy
Daisy Shah might have done only a handful of films but she isn’t complaining. After being an assistant choreographer to Ganesh Acharya for a decade, she made her Bollywood debut in 2014 with the Salman Khanstarrer Jai Ho, following it up with Hate Story 3 (2015). However, it’s her upcoming release, the star-studded Race 3, which Daisy is most excited about. She’s hopeful that it will “let the audience see me in a different avatar”. In a candid conversation, she talks about her journey so far, turning down Bodyguard, and more.
To be one of the leads in an outandout commercial film like Race 3… has it been a long wait?
You can say that, but everybody has their own journey. I took a little time, but eventually, I’ve reached my destination. That’s the goal, isn’t it?
You have been around for quite some time. Why didn’t many filmmakers cast you in main roles?
I wouldn’t blame anybody. My debut was delayed because it was my decision and my choice. And I believe in leaving things to time.
Were you not sure of the career path you wanted to follow?
I was very uncertain of what I wanted to be after being an assistant choreographer. The next step would have been to be a choreographer. I like dancing but when it comes to conceiving steps, I can’t do that — brains and dance don’t match in my case. But I realised that if I get into some other field, I’d have to start from scratch, which would have taken another 7-8 years.
So, how did acting happen? The next stop for me was modelling and, thankfully, I got in touch with (actor) Salman Khan while shooting for Dabanng (2010). Later, he offered me Bodyguard (2011), which I refused. It was really gracious of him to ask me again for another film — Jai Ho and, now, Race 3.
Did you have any regrets refusing Bodyguard?
Not really. I was offered Hazel Keech’s role (who played Kareena Kapoor Khan’s best friend). I gave my reason that I come from a dancing background which [that] role had nothing to do with. Though it was a prominent role, that particular character had not [much] to perform.
How do you react when people say that Salman launched you? I don’t bother. I honour their words. I am proud to be Salman’s protege and I am very grateful for that.
Were there any casting couch incidents you faced during your struggling days?
I wouldn’t deny that it doesn’t happen, but luckily, I haven’t been through it. I’ve never needed a casting director, honestly.
After race 3, are you hoping more work to come your way?
I can’t say that more work will be offered, but as a person and actor, I hope that more doors open for me and people look up to me as a person who can deliver.