Thrilled to work with Emraan Hashmi, Ankush: Nusraat Faria

Nusraat Faria had no plans of becoming an actor. She was happy pursuing higher education in Australia. But destiny had other plans in store for this Bangladeshi actor. The radio jockey received a call from a Bangladesh production house for a film and life hasn't been the same since then. Nusraat, who is about to debut in an Indo-Bangladesh film, Aashiqui, is elated to have bagged her first Bollywood project which will also feature Emraan Hashmi and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The debutante, who might come down to her favourite city, Kolkata, for the premiere of the film, speaks to HT.

You'll soon have a Bollywood feather in your cap...
I'm so excited about Gawah - The Witness opposite Emraan Hashmi. I am thrilled beyond words. I'm looking forward to learn from the stars.

Your debut Bengali film, Aashiqui, is also releasing. Are you anxious?
I'm very nervous. It's as if the results of my final examination are coming out. Of course, I am happy with the response the songs have received and the love that is being showered on me. I hope they also make it to the theatres with equal enthusiasm.

You're a radio jockey, television presenter and model. Were you into extra-curricular activities in school and college?
Back then, I was nothing but a nerd. But I was interested in dance and debate. So, I shared my keenness in hosting with my mother. Eventually, I conducted quiz shows and more than 500 events, including some big ones like live concerts of AR Rahman, Sunidhi Chauhan and other international celebrities in Dhaka.

Your acting career will take off simultaneously from India and Bangladesh...
Yes, it's an honour to be seen in both countries. I had no experience in acting, not even in drama, before this.
In Bangladesh, drama and serials are more popular than films. Although I never had any interest, I now love my job. Who wouldn't like to sport a glamorous look all day long?

How did you get the offer?
Actually, I was bored with my routine hosting, RJing, modelling and studying. So, I quit everything and flew to Australia for higher education at the University of South Australia with scholarship. In January, 2015, I was performing in Qatar, where Aziz Bhai (of the Bangladesh production house) saw me and was appreciative of my dancing. Later on, I got a call from them to audition for this project. I also auditioned by the Kolkata-based production house. Finally, the magic spell was cast.

How was shooting with Ankush like?
Ankush is an amazing co-actor. He does not carry the airs of a star and never made me feel like a newcomer on the sets. The chemistry between us has turned up well on screen. I'm so lucky to have him as my first hero.

Do you watch Bengali films? Who's your favourite Tollywood actor?
Actually, I was never a movie buff and have just about started watching films. I think I'll stick to Ankush as my favourite actor.