Akshara Haasan refuses to ride on her parents’ name and reputation. She wants to make her own space in the industry. Younger daughter of actor-filmmaker Kamal Haasan and Sarika, she is keen on proving herself. Currently busy with Thala 57, she is also an assistant director for her dad’s trilingual Sabaash Naidu. In fact, this is the first time, Ulaganayagan is working with both his daughters on the same project. CE has a chat with the young actor.
Excerpts from the interview
Post Shamitabh (2015), you have Ajith’s film in your kitty. How’s the experience of shooting
with him?
I have been selective since the beginning. You need to be able to do what you love with 100% conviction. As far as Thala 57 is concerned, we will discuss further when the time comes! Working with Ajith sir, like I said on Twitter, has been a gratifying experience. He is an amazing human being.
What can you tell us about Sabaash Naidu?
Well, that is a question for my father! Nobody else can give a correct answer. (Chuckles)
Acting or working behind the sets — what interests you the most?
I am cool with both acting and being on the technical side equally. I love being creative, hence, both make me happy. Each one is different in its own style.
What motivates you to sign a movie?
There are many things I see when I choose a film. It’s never one particular thing. I look at the whole package. The team is the most important aspect though. A top notch team is imperative for us to do the best. Same goes for the script.
What keeps you busy when you aren’t occupied with films?
Dance is my first love. When I am not working on a project, I train on my own and create something new. Or, I work on short films.
What would you choose — Bollywood or Kollywood?
Good cinema comes first and always will. There is no Bollywood-Kollywood divide. I will take up projects based on merit regardless of the industry.
You shared screen space with Big B pretty early in your career. Were you nervous?
Bachchan is a legend. If I say I wasn’t nervous working with him, I’d be lying. (Laughs). But he was really helpful. He made both Dhanush and me comfortable — so it was much easier to perform.
What does acting mean to you?
Acting is one of the things that I thoroughly enjoy. I believe in my abilities. Expectations are inevitable, but I have confidence in myself. I don’t stress too much on the comparisons. I have my own identity.
Does acting come naturally to you?
I hope I get there someday. (Smiles) If things came naturally, when do you work hard? I have a long way to go to be able to say I am a natural actor!
Who are your favourite actor(s) and director(s)?
It’s a hard choice to make as there are so many talented actors and directors. There are so many things that they may say or do that inspires me. I can’t choose one particular name.
Is direction on cards?
Yes it is. But I am concentrating on acting at the moment.
Can you share some Chennai memories? How special is this city to you?
I am a Tamil ponnu. Born and brought up here, I will always have the best memories from home. It helped define me, and knowing where my roots lie. That actually makes me so much stronger, and helps make my future clear.