If I work with Imtiaz Ali, I might not look at the script: Kriti Sanon

Kriti Sanon, who made her Bollywood debut three years ago with Heropanti (2014), has mentioned in the past about being ready to take on solo lead movies. Ask her if she is only seeking challenging parts, and she says, “It is not like ki kuch challenging aayega toh hi karungi (I will only take up challenging parts). It can really just be one thing that appeals to me in a film, either the script or the character.”

However, there are certain directors she would like to work with. “I love Imitiaz Ali’s sensibility and the way he brings out emotions in a different way. His characters have layers and complexities. I think for all the actors who have worked with him, those films have been their best. He is someone, who if I get to work with, I might not even look at the script,” she says. She is also keen on working with film-makers such as Rajkumar Hirani, Karan Johar and Vishal Bhardwaj.

Earlier, actors enjoyed longevity in Bollywood. Ask her if actors today are easily replaceable and if that makes it difficult for the current generation of actors, she says, “I have never thought of this. But there are times when a director would just think of one particular actor for a certain character. Also, you need to have an X factor. You can’t get repetitive as an actor. It is important to show variations. Directors should see you in different roles.”

Before making her foray into movies, did she ever underestimate herself? “When I came to Mumbai, I was like a little lost child, who didn’t know what to do. I took private workshops at home, because I had heard that acting schools were not that great. The more work you do, the better you get. Also, over time, you change, your style changes, and so does your fashion sense. That’s part of growing up. Everybody is not as confident when they land here (Mumbai),” shares Kriti.

However, it was her manager who believed in her and her capabilities. “He said, ‘You are not going to sign any film that comes your way, be patient. You will get something great’. That gave me more confidence. The moment you are assertive, you can do better than what you otherwise can.”