Meet this Sindhi girl from Mumbai who is determined to make her presence in Sandalwood. Saloni Aswani made her debut in Bollywood with the film ‘Dil Pardesi Ho Gaya’ in which she paired with Kapil Jhaveri. It was directed and produced by Sawan Kumar in 2003. The film created a lot of controversy when it was released. Saloni played a Pakistani girl who falls in love with an Indian who is on a mission. “It was a very good film but a few people objected to it. It had to be withdrawn from some theatres,” says Saloni who was in Bangalore to take act in the Kannada film Dubai Babu.
Saloni’s debut in Kannada was Budhivantha in which Upendra played the lead role while Saloni acted as a foolish Telugu girl who wants to become Mandakini of Ram Teri Ganga Meili. Saloni’s dancing skills for the song ‘Rararra Raara...’ invited rave reviews from the media. She became a heartthrob for many. “Initially, I was hesitant to accept that role because I do not know whether Kannada audience will accept a Telugu song and Telugu dialogues in the film. Now, I am very glad that song became a big hit not only with Telugu music lovers but also Kannadigas,” says Saloni.
Her other Kannada film is Theertha, opposite Sudeep, of Mussanje Maathu fame. “I am very happy to get a chance to act with Sudeep. My role is good and I hope the audience will accept it,” says Saloni.
When asked what prompted her to work with Kumar Govindu, who is making a comeback after a long gap, She says, “I played my character role well. It is irrelevant for me who the hero is. As far as Upendra is concerned, he is a good human being and a good actor. It is also nice to act with Kumar Govind. My character is full of comedy in Dubai Babu. Audience can have a heart laugh.” Saloni is familiar with Telugu audience.
She acted in films such as Oka Oorilo, Dhana 51, Chukkallo Chandrudu, Boss, and Kokila. She also worked as a model for Nirma, Chick Shampoo, Cadbury’s etc. “I acted with Amitabh Bachchan in the Cadbury’s ad. He never interferes with the director’s work and has no ego. It was very nice to act with him. I have learnt a lot from him,” recalls Saloni.
What are her ambitions? “I wanted to become either an airhostess or advocate. My father did not like my entry into films. However, I succeeded in convincing him. I am craving to play a double role,” says Saloni, adding that dancing was her passion and she doesn’t mind learning more varieties of dance.
Y Maheswara Reddy maheswarareddy@epmltd.com