I've learned that acting goes beyond characters

The actress has been soaring on success following her hit show, Jubilee. In high spirits and living her dreams, she has now bagged lead roles, marking an exciting phase in her career. Her upcoming project, Charlie Chopra & The Mystery of Solang Valley, in collaboration with the ace director Vishal Bharadwaj, has become the buzz of B’Town. Following this, Wamiqa has a string of shows lined up, with Khufiya being her next venture alongside Tabu, whom she holds in great awe.

Excerpts from an interview:

Charlie Chopra unveiled

In my latest role as Charlie, I don the hat of a detective, although not by profession but out of sheer love. The show breaks the fourth wall, a concept yet unexplored in India, adding an exciting twist to the narrative. I’m thrilled about this unique approach that transcends the boundaries of traditional storytelling, offering viewers a fresh and exhilarating experience.

Working with director Vishal Bharadwaj

Vishal Bharadwaj, an intrinsic director with a distinct vision, has played a pivotal role in shaping my journey in the industry. This collaboration marks our fourth project together, and I must acknowledge the invaluable mentorship I’ve received. Under his guidance, I’ve learned that acting goes beyond portraying characters; it’s about evoking genuine emotions and immersing oneself entirely in the narrative. The experience has been nothing short of fascinating.

A natural detective

My detective spirit didn’t just emerge on screen; it has deep-rooted origins in my childhood. I reminisce about my youthful adventures, sneaking around to uncover my mother’s hidden stash of sweets and biscuits after guests left. My keen investigative skills even extended to school, where I’d track down the culprits behind missing chocolates. This inherent detective quality continues to serve me well, even during the chaos of a film set.

Mumbai’s warmth

Mumbai, often referred to as the City of Dreams, has not only welcomed me with open arms but also cradled me in its embrace. I describe the city as a benevolent Santa Claus, a place where I never expected to find such relatability and trust. Mumbai’s inclusive and diverse atmosphere, where people from all corners of India coexist, has left a profound impact on me. In this vibrant melting pot, artists like me find solace and inspiration.

Living the dream

For me, dreams are not distant goals; they are an integral part of my daily life. I emphasize that dreams are not fulfilled through transactions but rather through a continuous journey of living and evolving. Coming from a background with no industry connections or godfather figures, I carry the weight of proving myself with each performance. My collaboration with Vishal Bharadwaj is a testament to my unwavering dedication and the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.

No pressure, just passion

Despite success, I resist industry pressure. Genuine enjoyment, honesty create art. I approach projects with sincerity, seeking joy in character portraying no more than the joy of bringing my characters to life.