‘I’m the happiest on set’

MAKING it big in the fiercely competitive Indian film industry is tough and even more difficult for those who live overseas, but Priya Banerjee rose up to the challenge.

Born and brought up in Canada, the actress has made an impressive mark in India by starring in Hindi, Tamil and Telugu films. The versatile actress has also appeared in web serials and is looking

forward to taking on more acting challenges.

Eastern Eye caught up with Priya to find out more about her.

What first connected you to acting?

I have always enjoyed watching movies, especially Bollywood ones. I’ve somehow loved watching Indian films even though I grew up in Canada, where no one spoke Hindi much, so that was the first connection I had.

Which projects have given you the greatest joy?

All my projects hold a very special place in my heart. I’ve enjoyed portraying all the characters I’ve played till date and I’m sure I’ll continue to do so.

What was the most challenging role you played?

They’ve all been challenging in their own ways and luckily all my roles have been very different from the other. As a newcomer, I’ve been lucky enough to portray different strong female protagonists.

Does your approach to acting change with different languages?

A little bit as the culture and gestures differ. There are also a lot of changes in the background of the character you’re playing.

What can we expect next from you?

Hopefully, a lot this year. My year started with the release of (web movie) Dheet Patangey on Hotstar, which has been well reviewed by the audience so far.

What would be your dream role?

I would love to work in a Sanjay Leela Bhansali movie as everything about his movies is so grand and he always has strong female protagonists.

What is the secret of moving to another country and being successful there?

(Laughs) Honestly, there is no secret or shortcut to success. I believe hard work and perseverance is the only key. You have to believe in your dreams and work hardest to achieve them.

What is the best advice you ever got?

The best advice that I got was ‘not to take success to your head and failure to your heart’.

What are your big passions away from work?

I love spending time with my family back home (in Canada), so whenever I’m not working I travel back.

Who is your own hero in cinema?

I’m a huge fan girl of Shah Rukh Khan.

What inspires you?

I believe I inspire myself the most. There are days when you have to push yourself harder than ever. I’m always doing that for myself even on the days I feel like doing nothing.

Why do you love being an actor?

The best way to answer that would be that I’m the happiest when I’m on set in front of the camera. I feel content and happy when I’m acting.