Helly Shah: Fans inspire me to work hard
GARAVI Gujarat caught up with actress Helly Shah, one of this year’s standout stars at Cannes. The top TV star also spoke about her forthcoming film, incredible fan base, future hopes, and breaking new ground.
How has the whole Cannes Film Festival experience been?
The whole experience has been so surreal and beautiful. I honestly came here with no expectations because this entire thing was peculiar for me. I came with an open slate and mind to learn all the different things about Cannes. There were no expectations. The kind of experience I’ve had here has been amazing. It’s honestly, still sinking in. I have not been able to soak it all in. It will take time to realize I’ve come here and walked the red carpet.
What was it like when you were on the red carpet in that amazing outfit?
I just knew I had to be confident and be myself. I didn’t want to pretend anything on the red carpet. I wanted to walk confidently, being me. The walk was great and a very different thing altogether. You see photographers on both sides of the red carpet and obviously pose both sides. There is a staircase, and you climb that, with people taking pictures. There are so many photographers! When I first moved out of the car and saw this entire visual it was breath-taking.
What was it like meeting Cannes queen Aishwarya Rai Bachchan?
She is so sweet! When I saw her first thing in the morning at a distance, she looked gorgeous. She came there to meet someone and take pictures. That’s when I told her I am a big fan of hers. It was great and a very beautiful moment. I also met her in the night at the L’Oréal party. At that time, (her daughter) Aradhya was also there and so was Abhishek (Bachchan) sir. I got to speak to him with a group of people about pro-kabaddi. He shared so many interesting facts about it and a lot of other things.
You came to Cannes to unveil the poster of your debut film Kaya Palat ....
I liked the story and character I’m playing, who is so different and unusual. Kaya is a very complex character, with so many layers. At one point, you feel something and then just feel completely different about her. So, that’s the beauty of this character and what made me want to do this film.
What can audiences expect when they see the film?
I think they can expect a different side of me as an actor because I’ve learned a lot of things and got this opportunity to do something really different, and raw in a complete story. It has been adapted from a true story, about rival mafias. The story is based in Jammu. I really hope audiences get this experience of how complex and intertwined this entire story is.
Is this the beginning of a new journey for you in films?
I really hope so! When I go back to India, I hope to get a lot more offers and opportunities to do different kind of stuff, which I am willing to do. What about working in the West?
Why not? I now know nothing is impossible. If given a chance and if things do work out, definitely, yes. I, as an actor, would get an experience of a lifetime and a different journey to embark on in a completely new setting. There are very few people who can pull that off, and if given a chance, I would just give my everything to do that.
Do you have a dream role in mind?
I used to, but then I realized I am an actor and don’t want to just have that one dream role. I want to do anything challenging that comes up my way. I want to make sure that I do justice to that entire character, so don’t have a specific kind of character.
Finally, would you give a message for your fans?
They’ve always been that support system and loved me. They have supported me in whatever way they can and that always motivates me so much. They encourage and inspire me to work hard. To show up to work every day.!