For me, the set is the happiest place on Planet Earth

Pashmina Roshan, whose debut film Ishq Vishk Rebound directed by Nipun Dharmadhikari and produced by Ramesh Taurani is set to hit theatres on June 21, talks to DC about her introduction to the world of films as a child, of making memories with her cousin Hrithik Roshan, and the pressures of the ‘Roshan’ tag.

On what it feels like to step into films

My parents are very happy and excited that I am debuting in films. I too am excited, and also a little nervous. Band mutthi khul rahi hai.

On her experience on the sets of Ishq Vishk Rebound

I love romantic comedy and feel great to be part of this genre. We had a lot of fun shooting. All members of the cast shared a great rapport on the sets. I love being on the sets. I realised this even when I went to sets as a child. Even at that time I felt it was the best place on Planet Earth.

I remember that they had made a set of Kasauli in Film City for the Hrithik Roshan starrer Koi Mil Gaya. I would be there all day long. It felt like Disneyland to me, and I didn’t want to leave.  

On what it felt like to step into sets as an actor

Finally, after all those auditions and rejections and hard work, like doing workshops and so many other things to enhance my skills as an actor, when I went on the sets of Ishq Vishk Rebound, I felt this was my time to perform. But even with all the effort it took to make the project good, I still felt I was in Disneyland. I wish that feeling translates on celluloid. Everyone on the sets felt happy as the atmosphere was positive. I wish the audiences will get that vibe as well. The set is the happiest place for me. My dad always says ‘As artistes you always create art.’ I am in seventh heaven when I get to create art.

On the baggage that comes with being a ‘Roshan’

My father, my cousin and my uncle are well-known for their art, and I too wish to be known for that. Despite any obstacle or pressure, I will try to achieve that goal. Sometimes I will run, sometimes walk and maybe I will also crawl — but I will work towards bringing out the best of my skills and proceed professionally.

On memories of cousin Hrithik Roshan

My first memory of Hrithik as an actor is of him performing on stage. This was just when Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai was released. I was very young. I asked my mom who the man on stage was, and she had to tell me he was Duggu bhaiya. That memory of him being so different in that character is still etched in my mind.

On learning from Hrithik

Having watched Hrithik’s films, I now understand how we need to delve deep into our on-screen characters to make audiences believe in us. He improves himself with every character that he performs. He gives audiences something new with every film. I have learnt a lot from watching his films. I’m working hard and have a lot to improve on. I will always try my best to better myself and try to create art that can match up to what other members of my family have created.

On the qualities she admires in Hrithik

He has a special quality — he sees all the good in every individual. He empowers people through his exuberant performances and also as himself. For him, being humane is above all and there’s lots I can learn from him as a human being.

“My father, my cousin and my uncle are well-known for their art, and I too wish to be known for that. Despite any obstacle or pressure, I will try to achieve that goal. Sometimes I will run, sometimes walk and maybe I will also crawl — but I will work towards bringing out the best of my skills.”