A dream-like launch in a very competitive industry like Mollywood is not something that happens often. But it did happen to Aishwarya Lekshmi, a model-turned actor. And, she knows it quite well.
"I am blessed to have bagged two prominent projects," says the medico, who will make her debut opposite Nivin Pauly in Njandukalude Naatil Oridavela. "I want to stay and do good work," she adds.
So, how did acting happen? "I have been modelling for some time. Then, I chanced upon the audition call by director Althaf Salim. I took part and was selected to play Rachel," says Aishwarya, who is yet to complete her house surgency.
Though she was selected in December, 2015, the shoot didn't start till September, 2016.
"I put the gap to good use. I met with the team often and soon we became friends. That helped when we went on the floors. It gave me, a novice, the confidence to play Rachel," says Aishwarya, who confesses to being a bag of nerves.
"I was a very confused person. During our initial schedule, I used to pester both Althaf and Nivin about the shots I gave. I hope I got better over time." But, then Aishwarya says Althaf was quite clear about his Rachel.
"Althaf is a director who knows his characters well. We sit and discuss about how Rachel is supposed to be. That made it easy," she says.
Njandukalude Naattil Oruidavela might not have hit the screens yet but Aishwarya has moved on to another project. She will be playing the lead lady to Tovino Thomas in Aashiq Abu's next, Mayanadi. And, she is pretty thrilled about it, too.
"It is a lot different from Njandukalude Naatil.... In fact, the role has a lot of meat, and it was quite a challenge playing her. While my character belongs to a sub plot, it is around her that the story revolves in Mayanadi," says Aishwarya.
Mayanadi is a urban romance saga that is under production. But, how was it working with two different teams, but both known for their quality of work? Aiswarya says while it was all very friendly in Njandukalude Naatil Oridavela, she was quite nervous about Mayanadi.
"Althaf is like a friend, while Aashiq sir is someone I respect a lot. So, while I was quite boisterous on Althaf's sets, I put forward my disciplined side in the other," says Aishwarya with a laugh.She adds that she was in awe at the dedication shown by Nivin.
"He is such a hard-working man. Nivin would immerse himself in the role and put a lot of effort to ensure that a quality movie is being made. His passion towards his craft is exemplary. And, as a person, he is a fun guy to be around," says Aishwarya.
Njandukalude Naatil Oridavela will hit the screens during Onam.