‘I AM TOO LOW-KEY FOR THIS BUSINESS’
Sonakshi Sinha, who has been working non-stop for nine years, has now decided to do ‘one thing at a time’; says she’s excited about her digital debut
After nine years as an actor in Bollywood, Sonakshi Sinha has changed a lot. Though she admits that she loves to “work non-stop” and is super dedicated to what she does. Sonakshi also insists that she doesn’t want to burn out. Therefore, the actor has decided that this year on, she will only work on one project at a time. In an interview, Sonakshi talks about her digital debut with a thriller, why she needs to not be “low-key” and why she prefers her work to speak for her. Excerpts:
What made you decide to do a web show?
After the stellar year I have had with four releases [Kalank, Khandaani Shafakhana, Mission Mangal, Dabangg 3] last year, I wanted to take up something only if it blew my mind, and this web show did that. It challenges me, and the story is thrilling. I didn’t have to think twice before taking it up. Plus, director Reema Kagti is so clear about her vision, and it’s a pleasure to be directed by her.
You recently learned to ride a bike for the same show. How has that experience been?
Wonderful. I have always wanted to learn how to ride, but with work being so hectic, and it being a little difficult to do so on the Mumbai streets, I never got a chance to ride a bike until now. I have always liked bikes, but now that I know how to ride — I love them! Although, I am not a fan of speeding, just being on a bike is an exhilarating feeling.
What is that one thing that attracts mainstream actors like you to a digital show?
The content. I am hooked to watching shows on various OTT platforms, and I strongly believe their content is way better than most films today. And, as an actor, at the end of the day, I am only looking for things that will challenge me. I will always be an actor first — whether I choose to do films, digital shows, television or theatre. They are just mediums. I am not leaving cinema at all, just trying something new.
This year, you will complete 10 years in showbiz. How do you feel your career has panned out?
Recently, a survey revealed that I am the only actress who debuted in 2010s and has been a part of films that have collected ₹1,500 crores at the box office since then. It’s safe to say that my career panned out really well. I have been super dedicated to my work and that has really paid off. I have worked non-stop for the past nine years and this year, I have taken a step back and decided to do one thing at a time. It’s important not to burn out, I still think I have a long way to go. I’d rather let my work speak for myself, but having said that, I could work on my PR skills... I am too low-key for this business.