From Russia with love
Kristina has come a long way from her modelling days to sharing screen space with Upendra in the Kannada movie Uppi 2
By : shashiprasad sm
Update: 2015-08-12 00:09 GMT
Unlike several models, acting was not ‘accidental’ for this pristine beauty. In fact, it was the other way around. Now, for two years, she has been living her dream of being an actress. Born in Russia and based out of Australia, Kristina Akheeva makes a grand debut in Real Star’s most anticipated sequel of the decade - Uppi 2 with the tagline Unknownu and speaks exclusively to us about her journey from being a successful model and her acting break in Bollywood to her passions – acting, yoga and her inclination towards nature.
“Ever since I was a child, acting has always been my dream. In fact, I moved from Queensland to Melbourne, Australia to learn acting and to study film and TV. I even did short films and involved myself in theatre to some extent. Modelling happened to me by accident. While doing one of my projects, I was offered a contract after being impressed with my photos. I traveled the globe modelling for various commercials for about five years. But I kept my dream of returning to acting, alive,” says Kristina, adding that her path changed on landing in India. She says, “When I came to India for a shoot, I was offered a film. I was initially skeptical as I had no knowledge of the language. However, when I was told to make it to the audition, I gave it a shot and that’s how I made my Bollywood debut with Yamla Pagla Deewana 2.” The pretty actress had even dubbed in her own voice for her Bollywood debut in which she portrayed the character of an Indian girl with a UK accent. She later went on to make her name in Tollywood with Galipatam.
With no filmy connection, she says her parents supported her a lot in her endeavour, “They are my biggest strength, are extremely supportive and always trust my decisions knowing that whatever I do, I end up succeeding. My mother in particular, pushes me to do what I love doing,” she says.
Aside of her busy schedule - shooting and posing for the shutterbugs, Kristina prefers to meditate and practice yoga. “I do meditation and yoga to balance my body and mind. I love being with nature and recently went trekking in the Himalayas. I often go on nature walks in the jungles and try to stay connected with Mother Nature through outdoor activities,” says Kristina.
Talking about Uppi 2, she explains that it was Upendra who offered her a role in the film after watching her in Yamla Pagla Deewana 2. “Initially I had no knowledge of how huge the project was. I did a lot a research and while on it, I realised how creative Uppi sir was. He is known as the director with a difference, and I am lucky to be a part of it as it gives me ample opportunity to learn as an actor. I watched Upendra, and my staff watched it several times to understand it,” she smiles. Despite Indian delicacies being a little too spicy for her, Kristina enjoys gorging on them. “I have been eating Indian food all through my shooting. I do not remember the names of the dishes, but I’m enjoying it a lot. We have even been to Mysuru and had the famous biriyani,” she says.