Nikki Galrani has completed 25 films in less than three years of her entry into tinsel town. The actress, who was once a designer, explains that she never dreamt of foraying into films. But when an alluring offer for the Nivin Pauly starrer, 1983 (Malayalam) came her way in 2014, she could not turn it down. When it went on to become a blockbuster and her performance was critically acclaimed, Nikki was on a roll. Her debut film in the Tamil flick Darling, was a huge hit and she is now, undoubtedly, the sought after actress in K’town. Her next film, Pakka, with Vikram Prabhu marks her 25th movie, in which she essays the role of an ardent Superstar Rajinikanth’s fan. She talks about her journey in a freewheeling chat with DC.
“It feels great to know that I am working on my 25th film within such a short period of time. My career graph has been so quick. I have not taken a break in all these three years and have been working continuously in all the south Indian languages. I am called bhagya nayaki (lucky girl) in Kerala. I feel fortunate to be part of wonderful teams and movies,” the Kadavul Irukan Kumaru actress quips.
As the conversation veers to her next Pakka, Nikki flashes her famous smile — “Oh yes, it is all the more special, since even in real life, I am a very big fan of Rajini sir’s. I consider it a blessing to play my real self on screen as well. Heroes normally get such opportunities and I don’t think any heroine has played a Rajini sir fan till date. Directed by Suriya, it is a super fun film.”
Quiz her on whether she says any of Rajini’s famous punch lines in the movie, she is quick to react. “I can’t reveal much at this point of time. But, yes, I do it in my own way (laughs). I got all my references collected,” she shares.
When asked about teaming up with her co-stars Vikram Prabhu, GV Prakash, and Aadhi multiple times, she asserts, “I am a friendly person and I don’t throw any airs or tantrums on the sets. Maybe that’s the reason.”
Was she not intimidated by the presence of another heroine in most of her movies? — “Why would I? For me, the content of my portions seemed important. I can score even in a small role, provided it is strong.”
People rave about your dancing abilities alongside Lawrence, in the movie Motta Siva Ketta Siva. “It was a remix version of the legendary MGR’s iconic song Aadaludan Paadali Kettu. Unlike the original, set as a qawwali with foot-tapping movements, this has been done as a western style club number. In fact, I had a leg injury while it was being shot in Malaysia. I was initially apprehensive about having to cope up with master. But, he made us all comfortable by giving us steps and movements that play to our strengths.”
