Crushing On, Meet the Unscripted- Rhea Chakraborty

Rhea Chakraborty is filled with goofy charm and has a supremely confident personality. She does not allow the whims of business to fluff her confidence. She unmistakably knows how to win over the myopic world of acting and where her creative interests lie. She is here to stay with her body of work. Her next project with megastar Amitabh Bachchan titled ‘Chehre’ is all set to release this year. Here Rhea talks about life as an outsider in the film industry and her future projects.

Who is ‘Rhea Chakraborty’ in real life?
I am just a girl who loves eating, reading books, lots of physical activity – sports, MMA (Mixed martial arts), yoga. And as long as I get lots of time to spend with my family, I am all set.

How has your journey been in the Bollywood industry so far?
Bollywood has been the craziest journey – up and down and round and round!
But I have learnt so much and evolved as a person through this journey. I met some amazing people and met some people early on – who made me realize what not to become!

If not an actor, what would you have been doing right now professionally?
Well hopefully I would be an engineer, as I was all set to crack IIT entrances

One thing that you like and dislike about working in the industry?
Like – that every film unit becomes your family
Dislike – the unbelievable hierarchy and patriarchy

Which book character you would like to play if it was turned into a movie?
All the characters in Murakami’s books

Chehre, your next movie is set to release in 2020. What do you have to say about that?
I feel super excited about it. I got an opportunity of a lifetime to work with Amitabh Sir, Anu Kapoor Sir and the amazing cast. Learnt why the film industry became the film industry!

How was it working with Amitabh Bachchan in Chehre?
He is the epitome of humility , generosity, talent and is always looking out for everyone around him ! He is truly a legend.

One piece of advice you would like to give to your younger self?
Enjoy the ride, it gets better!

You started your career from television in 2009 and now you have recently worked with such big stars in your upcoming movie? How does that make you feel?
I honestly just go with the flow. I am really excited about 2020 as lots of new amazing things are lined up.

Who is one director that tops your list of working with?
Anurag Basu for sure

Your favourite work till date, as in your favourite character that you played?
Aisha in Jalebi

Was there any time when you felt as an outcast in the industry?
Only when I first started attending award shows and realized star kids get to sit in the front row just by birth and I will have to earn it!

Filmfare awards recently has been bashed about being biased? What’s your say on that?
Awards are a jury’s call and it is not my place to comment on it. It’s the audience validation that all actors are always gunning for and the viewers never disappoint when it comes to showering their love on deserving performances, this year was no different.

One movie role you wish you had done?
Honestly Gabbar in Sholay (could be made female in 2020)

Nepotism is a heavily discussed topic these days in Bollywood. Your take on that?
There’s no denying it’s all over, also in Bollywood, but the fact is that only the really talented star kids make it. Although they do get endless opportunities without much work.

Your favourite movie from last year?
Chhichhore

Things you splurge your money on?
Moisturizers, perfumes and food

Your favourite holiday destination?
Paris

Early bird or night owl?
Early bird

Heavy makeup look or nude makeup look?
Nude makeup

Beach or mountains?
Beach baby

Show you are binge watching right now?
Narcos and Big Bang theory

First thing you bought with your paycheck?
A watch for my mom

Heels or flats?
Flats

Your favourite quote?
Magic happens outside the comfort zone!

One thing without which you never step out of your home?
Earphones

One DIY home remedy you swear by?
Hair oil every sat – coconut almond and olive mixed with a little castor oil

One celebrity’s wardrobe you would like to raid?
Malaika Arora’s – specially her gym wear

Which Bollywood star has the best fashion sense?
Rekha Ma’am

One person you go for fashion advice?
My mom

Your fitness Mantra?
Train like a beast – look like a beauty

What do you expect of your future as for now?
I live in the present or at least try to. Future please be kind!

One dearest memory of your childhood?
Eating ‘Gol Gappas’ with my mom and cycling

What is the toughest part of being an actor?
The uncertainty of the business

Cover Photo Courtesy: Gaurav Swan
Cover Hair and Makeup: Riddhima Sharma
Cover Stylist: Khyati Busa