Rakul Preet Singh is best described as realistic, radiant and rapid. She’s a powerhouse of talent and undoubtedly one of the biggest names in the South Indian industry. The actress can switch from being Sati Savitri to sultry siren with just a change of expression. And now she’s raring to move on to the next big thing after her super-hit last year, De De Pyaar De. In a candid tête-à-tête, the actor opens up with us… — as told to Anahita
You have three Hindi, two Telugu and two Tamil movies in the pipeline. All set for 2021?
Yes, it feels great! Actually, these were slated for 2020 but this year’s barely seen anything and hasn’t been the best to most of us. I’m really looking forward to 2021 and hope it’s kind to us. I hope to take on more work and will pray it goes off well. I’m not someone who looks into what the result will be; I like to give it my all, and the rest automatically follows. As of now, I’m glad about the variety of work I’m getting, across the different industries, as it gives me a chance to show different characters.
You’ve struck a balance working in both the Hindi and South industries. Ofter actors end up sacrificing one for the other.
Telugu is where I started off and I am emotionally connected to Hyderabad, so it’ll always be priority. With Bollywood, the work might be less, as my time is split. But the rest won’t change. Whereas Hindi is my own language – I relate to it. I’m very grateful that I have opportunities coming from there, too. Trying to strike a balance isn’t something I always do, but it’s a very important part of my life. I intend to do good films with stories that excite me, irrespective of the industry. I have one house in Mumbai and one in Hyderabad, so for me it’s one leg here and the other there.
What films do you regard as milestones in your career?
I haven’t considered anything as a milestone, and why should I decide? I leave that for my audiences to take a call on. To me, every movie has brought something with it in terms of learning, and they’ve all made me who I am today. Every movie I’ve done, in its own way has been a ladder to my growth. A hit or a flop – they’ve all taught me something, making me this person.
For someone who’s made it on their own, how difficult or easy was it to carve your path in these industries?
I believe that nothing comes easy in life. I ended up taking a road that was less travelled and worked hard to get here. I wouldn’t call it difficult, because when you’re passionate about something, the journey becomes beautiful. I’m extremely passionate about what I do, and everything teaches me something or the other.
What are your views on nepotism?
I don’t like to make a big deal about nepotism. When I entered the industry, I didn’t know a soul here. I got here on my own, with my hard work. And tomorrow if my kids want to get into acting, will I not help them? Having said that, it is only talent that gives you longevity here. Yes, someone who has contacts might find it easier to get access in comparison to an outsider. But beyond that it’s only their work that gets them going. See for yourself – we have more people from outside the industry than from inside.Ayushmann Khurrana,Vicky Kaushal, or even if you look at the actresses in the south – Samantha, Nayanthara or Tamannaah. We’re all from outside.
What’s been your highest peak as an actor?
I’m not somebody who looks back and thinks like that. I’m very thankful for the work I’m doing and very grateful to be receiving the kind of love I do. I know there are so many people who’re dying to do just one film, dying to be in my shoes. And when I look at things from that perspective, I have nothing but gratitude with a heart filled with love, as I’m only doing what I love to do.
What has the industry taught you?
This industry has made me the person I am today. I joined here as a kid. I moved out of my house when I was 20, and ever since then I’ve been learning. Everything that’s happened in the last eight years of me being here is what makes me the person I am. This industry has given me my dream!
Speaking of dreams, has there been one dream-come-true moment in your career?
My career itself is my dream come true! I always wanted to become an actor and thanks to the love I’ve received, I’m living my dream.
What was the lockdown like for you?
For me, as someone who’s been working throughout, this was the longest break of my life. That time at home gave me a new perspective onlife – what we were chasing and how anything can happen at any time. It’s when a situation like this arises that we realise the true essence of life. I was very grateful to have a house, help, and didn’t have to worry about my job during the pandemic. It made me realise that true happiness lies within.
Is there any OTT series you wish you had done?
Not really. Even though there’s some amazing content out there, I haven’t thought of that space yet. If something path-breaking comes my way, I’d be more than ready.
Any movie you regret saying no to?
Nope. I don’t regret anything. I’m a very spiritual person who believes that life is too short to have regrets.
