Raashi's Tamil sojourn...in English!

Raashi Khanna of Oohalu Gusagusalade (2014) fame wants to do performance-oriented roles. Maybe, that’s why she doesn’t mind waiting for long. The Delhi-based actor who played the lady love of Ravi Teja in Bengal Tiger (2015) says she never plans anything in life, but likes taking up challenges. “I never thought I’d become an actor. I was a geek-cum-topper in school, who was keen on studying. It was naturally fun to achieve that. I prefer to do new things,” she said.

After completing her studies, she got into advertising. “I never realised acting was my calling, till I did my first film. In fact, dad wanted me to become an IAS officer. I was into modelling meanwhile and gave it a shot without thinking much,” she smiled.

The actor recalls how it was a surprise for her family when she had told them that she was offered  Madras Cafe (2013), an Indian political spy thriller, her debut venture, alongside John Abraham. “Though initially they were worried; later they supported my decision. Moreover, I was happy that I got  to debut in a content-driven film rather than some random rom-coms. I had enough scope to perform like any other good commercial script. My character was the wife of a RAW agent; it  demanded a lot of emotions," she added.  

The Shivam (2015) actor wishes to strike a balance between Tamil and Telugu films. Soon to make her appearence in K’town with Saithan Ka Bachcha opposite Siddharth, directed by Karthik of Kappal fame, she shared “It’s a comedy genre. I have always wanted to do films in Tamil because of its script and content. I am slowly picking up the language. The next time I am here, I’ll make sure that I learn all the swear words. At the same time, the Telugu industry has been so warming.”

Speaking more about Saithan Ka Bachcha, she explained, “This role is different from the characters  that I have played so far. The first schedule is over and whatever we shot has made me realise that it’s worth it. I play a fashion designer in the film. So, I get to wear new colourful clothes for most of the scenes. Also, the script demanded that I change my outfit and hairstyle often. Over all, it has been a great learning experience. I am a huge fan of Siddharth from his Rang De Basanti (2006) days. I have immense respect towards him.”

She could not stop gushing about Chennai. “It’s a lovely place and everyone including the technicians on sets are friendly. I wish I had more time to visit the city,” she added.

How does she manage to memorise Tamil dialogues? These days Raashi listens to Tamil songs often. “Without understanding the meaning of the lyrics, I can memorise and sing. Tamil is such a beautiful language. For my dialogues, I write them down in English and emote accordingly. I am a quick learner and language isn’t a barrier at all,” she beamed.

The actor, who has Hyper and Oxygen lined up for release in Telugu, says how she aims to do a variety of roles across industries. “My last film was Supreme. The audience saw me in a comic  character. Eventually, I signed on Saithan Ka... as I wanted to explore a different subject,” Raashi says, adding, she also eagerly looks forward to working with the likes of Mani Ratnam and Gautham Menon. 

(The piece was originally written for The New Indian Express)