Urfi Javed: Stylishly bold

SHE may have been getting a lot of attention for her bold photoshoots, striking figure and outspoken nature in recent months, but first and foremost, Urfi Javed is an accomplished actress.

She has delivered impressive performances in hit drama serials that include Bade Bhaiyya Ki Dulhania, Chandra Nandini, Meri Durga, Saat Phero Ki Hera Pherie, Bepannaah, Daayan and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.

Eastern Eye caught up with the much talked about Indian model and actress with nearly two million Instagram followers to find out more about her. She spoke about diverse subjects, including work, abusive producers, mental health, suicide, being fearless and future hopes.

How do you look back on your journey as an actress?

I look back at my journey as a very long one, full of struggles. But I also look back with amazement and say ‘sh*t I started from there and don’t believe I am here.’

You recently discussed some nightmare scenarios with producers; what was the worst moment?

I recently discussed it, yes! The worst moment was when they made me feel powerless. The worst part was I could not storm out of the set, which I should have instead of continuing the scene.

How did you get through those times mentally?

I was not in a good place mentally. It took me a lot of time to get out of that phase. I was contemplating suicide a lot of times. It took me a lot of time to come out of that phase. I was in depression, but I didn’t give up and got through it.

Has the fact you have spoken about abusive producers worked against you?

The fact I spoke about it, why will it work against me? I mean, I am speaking about an incident that happened to me, and I am vocal about my struggles, achievements and everything. And if being vocal is affecting my work, toh aise kaam ka karna hi kya hai? (then why should one do that work)?

What is the career plan going forward?

There’s no plan. (Laughs) I wish someone told me the plan and I could have followed that.

What is your dream role?

My dream role is the character that Jennifer Lawrence played in Mother. It is my dream to play something like that.

Your style gets a lot of attention. Where do you draw your fashion inspirations from?

I draw my inspiration from these big designers. Or sometimes the ideas just come to my mind, so it’s a mix of everything.

Where does your daring side come from?

My daring side comes from the fact that I was so much controlled and people saying that I won’t be able to make it, and I am too short, etc. So, I just let go of all things and decided to be myself. And that’s how I became this strong. If you tell me that I can’t do it, I’ll shove it up on your face by doing it.

So, would you say that you are fearless?

I am fearless. Imagine getting trolled for wearing what you want and getting trolled for being myself. But I am still myself. And that’s what being fearless means.

What is the best advice you have been given?

There was a time when I was contemplating suicide, but there was someone who told me ‘You can commit suicide whenever you want but give a fair chance to life! If that doesn’t work out then you have suicide as an option, but once you lose your life, you can’t think of giving your life a fair chance again’.

Is it fair to say you are about girl power?

Yes, I am all about girl power. I am all for feminism. And with feminism I would say that I stand up for everyone and for equality.

What inspires you?

My only inspiration right now is the image in my head of being the most inspiring and influential woman on this earth.