DEBINA BONNERJEE speaks with MUSKAN BAKSHI about why she chose to step into the world of supernatural

• What prompted you to play Vishkanya in Vish: A Poisonous Story?

The character has a lot of versatility and style. There was a lot of scope to show my acting skills. It was different from what I had done before. There was room to explore and experiment with this genre.  Then there was the fact that it was  a Colors show. All this made me say ‘yes’.

• How did acting happen to you?

It started when I saw Sushmita Sen winning Miss Universe. Back then, I was  awestruck and thought if she being a Bengali can win this title then I should also try. I told my parents that I want to become an actor. It was a very random thought. When, I was in Class IX, I told my parents that I want to participate in Miss Kolkata. I was afraid that they would say no but they were supportive. I won that competition. It boosted my confidence. I came to Mumbai to further  my dreamsof pursue acting. I got my first show Ramayana and it was followed by a couple of South-Indian films. There was a lot of struggle, anxiousness and ups and downs during this phase but I rose above all. I enjoyed each and every phase of my career because struggle is a part and parcel of acting.

• What is the lesson the industry has taught you?

I have learnt to be patient and keep working hard. It is important to improve and evolve as an actor. If you are doing this, then work will come to you. The other thing is that it is not necessary to take whatever work that is coming into your way. Sometimes waiting for good roles and good scripts is important. So, wait for the right work.  This will help you sustain in the industry and you will also enjoy what you are doing.

• What kind of roles attract you?

I love different kinds of roles. The kind of roles that I haven’t done before attracts me. I love to explore different genres. If you will keep doing the same kind of work, it will become boring and you will stagnate.

• What does fame mean to you?

Fame means becoming more responsible. When people start recognising you, they observe each and every detail about you. You have to be careful with your words and actions. You have to be careful about how you are portraying yourself because they learn from you. You should behave in an ideal way and set an example that others can follow.

nApart from acting, what keeps you busy?

Fitness is always on my cards. Everytime I am free, I like to sweat it out in the gym. Other than that, I am busy with my YouTube channel — Debina Decodes.

• What advice would you like to give out to the aspiring actors?

I would like to say that there are many outsiders who want to work in this industry because they see it as the last career option. They think that the struggle is all about staying healthy and fit, maintaining a good personality and appealing looks but there is much more to it.

There is a continuous struggle that one has to go through, be it in finding work or overcoming rejection.

One has to go through it all and emerge stronger.  Talent always finds its way. Be mentally and emotionally prepared for the worst so that you can taste the best.