Tollywood actress Payal Rajput, who is riding on her riveting performance in her recent Telugu release 'Mangalavaram', has posted a message to join the casting call of actor-director Rishab Shetty's upcoming film 'Kantara Chapter 1'. "I don't mind doing an audition for the film because I am desperate to be part of the remarkable film," she says. She received many positive responses to her post from netizens and was quite happy about it. Although she receives plenty of offers in Telugu, she wants to pick the right one. Talking exclusively to Deccan Chronicle, she claimed she awaits the release of her upcoming Punjabi film 'Daddy O Daddy.'
Q: Your tweet seeking a role in 'Kantara Chapter 1' has gone viral and created ripples in the industry?
A: I didn't think twice before posting the tweet since I wanted to be part of a remarkable film. I didn't feel anything wrong as I was just seeking work. I also did not feel shameful or desperate. I used to do 5 to 6 auditions during my struggling days, and I am game for another audition to bag a plum role. I was fascinated with 'Kantara' for its unique theme and great performances by Rishabh Shetty. It would be a great opportunity to share screen space with such an excellent actor.
Q: You are setting a precedent by seeking a job(read role) using social media, like Gen X job seekers?
A: I am also a kind of job seeker who is carving for great roles. Since I don't have anyone in the Kannada film industry to get me the role, I preferred to use social media to reach out to the makers of Kantara Chapter 1. Earlier, actresses like Tapsee and Neena Gupta have expressed similar interest on their social media accounts, and I am probably the third one to join the elite list. It is my life, and I want to live it on my terms. With survival becoming difficult for young actresses, I have to find new ways to attract the attention of top filmmakers. If I am invited for auditions. I am game for it.
Q: Despite putting in a scintillating performance in 'Mangalavaram', you haven't signed anything yet in Tollywood?
A: I am getting a lot of offers, but I don't want to be in a hurry. With 'Mangavalaram' giving me the much-needed hype and standing, I am just waiting for a meaty role. I would prefer to sit idle at home for six months rather than doing a poorly-etched role and hampering my prospects since Telugu cinema is close to my heart, and I want to park myself here.
Q: You have been doing Punjabi movies, too?
A: Being my mother tongue, I would like to do Punjabi movies once in a while to explore varied roles. I am doing a comic-centric role in my next Punjabi film 'Daddy O Daddy' set to release in February next. This fun-driven role is quite a contrast to my intense role in 'Mangalavaram,' and I enjoyed doing both.
