An epic match

When Pearl V. Puri was brought in to replace Anshuman Malhotra in Nagarjun — Ek Yoddha, he had big shoes to fill. In a short span of time however, Pearl has eased into his role. Co-star Pooja Bannerjee’s chatty nature too helped him forge a strong bond with the new set.

Their efforts seem to have paid off since the audience too has accepted the new pairing. In a freewheeling chat, Anshuman and Pooja tell us what makes them a hit pair onscreen. Edited excerpts from the conversation:

How did the ice break when you guys met for the first time on the sets?
Pooja: I’m a talkative person, so it has always been easy for me to make people comfortable. Pearl will easily vouch for this.
Pearl: The first time we met, Pooja spoke a lot and made sure I was comfortable — so much so that I was automatically a part of the conversation. She is extremely talkative, and can go and on for hours.

Was it awkward filming romantic scenes considering that you two have only started working together?
Pooja: Pearl is easy to work with, so we haven’t had any awkward situation. Plus, we are professionals. I have been doing romantic scenes for the last four years, so there is nothing about intimate scenes that can make me feel awkward.
Pearl: Like Pooja said, we are thorough professionals and we have done complete justice to each and every scene. Filming these intimate scenes wasn’t awkward at all.

Who is a better co-star between the two of you?
Pooja: Me! This is me just bragging. (Smiles)
Pearl: I would say both of us. We are equally hardworking.

How many times have you burst out laughing while filming a scene?
Pooja: I laugh while shooting almost all the scenes. I have become quite infamous for my behaviour since my laughter cracks everyone up and even brings the shoot to a halt. My director hates me for this. (Laughs).
Pearl: Her laughter makes everyone laugh.

Is there any particular scene that has made it’s way to your heart?
Pooja: The engagement scene was very special since I just got engaged in my personal life at around the same time as well. It felt like I was experiencing the same moment twice.
Pearl: Every scene is special to me since the character of Arjun is very dear to me.

Is there any scene that has made you go ‘I wish I had done it better’?
Pooja: I have liked my work in every scene of late, so there is no such scene where I think I could have done better.
Pearl: I think I can outdo every scene I perform if I am given one more chance. Actors are learners; I believe I am learning something every day and that’s helping me grow.

What’s you’re off screen equation like?
Pooja: We share a good bond. Touch wood.
Pearl: It’s good.

Is there any fan comment about your jodi that has caught your eye?
Pooja: A fan recently said that compared to every male lead I have worked with, I look best with Pearl.
Pearl: Fans like my pair with her and it is very reassuring.

Where are you most likely to be found during breaks on the set?
Pooja: In my room or anywhere where there is good food.
Pearl: I sit with the director and learn about direction.

So, who is the jagga jasoos on the sets who gets all the gossip — you or her?
Pooja: Since I have been on the show for quite some time now, it’s me.
Pearl: Pooja. She has been on the show from the start, so she obviously gets all the gossip.

 Rapid Fire
Your favourite food on the sets?
Pooja: I don’t eat food from the sets.
Pearl: Protein shake or bar.

Your 2 am buddy on the sets?
Pooja: Mrunal Jain and Abigail Jain.
Pearl: My script.

Things you cannot do without on the sets?
Pooja: My cell phone and make-up.
Pearl: A mirror and phone.

Your stressbuster on the sets?
Pooja: Sudeepa Singh and Abigail.
Pearl: Music.

Your wildest fantasy?
Pooja: I want to sit on a dolphin and swim.
Pearl: I want to perform action stunts 10,000 feet above sea level.

Your dream date?
Pooja: Somewhere on a remote island.
Pearl: I haven’t thought about it as yet.