Kiara Advani: “I’m lucky that I’ll be reaching out to a wider audience”

Kiara Advani who  was recently seen as M S Dhoni’s wife in  the biopic Dhoni The Untold Story  is all set to make her debut in Telugu cinema opposite superstar Mahesh Babu in Bharat Ane Nenu. She tells Subhash  K Jha about the  career  move.

You seem to have discovered alternate success  in the Telugu  film industry. How did this happen? And how comfortable are  doing films in  Telugu?

I think I got really lucky that there was this demand for me to do a Telugu film. Success is met when hard work meets the right opportunity. I’m still awaiting the release of the film to know how I fair with the audience. It’s like giving an exam and waiting for your results.

How did you bag Bharat Ane Nenu and what was it like working with Mahesh Babu?

Mahesh’s wife Namrata, had been in touch with me. She felt this would be the right project to debut with. My director Koratala Siva Garu came to Mumbai to meet me which was when he took me through the script of the film. The subject and content drew me to the project. I had also watched his earlier films and admired his ability to tell stories that a contemporary and topical in the most relatable, commercial and entertaining manner. It’s also extremely important that my role lends to the story. To top it off  it all I was cast  opposite the biggest star and so it was too good to say no.

Now you have signed another Telugu film, this time with Ramcharan Teja. Are you planning to shift to Telugu cinema?

I’m happy that I’m able to balance my work schedule and do projects in both Hindi and the south.  We’re living in a time where language is no longer a barrier when it comes to  viewing cinema. I’m lucky that I’ll be reaching out to a wider audience both north and south and as an artist that’s a blessing.

What about your career in  Hindi cinema? Where does that stand? Do you regret not being able to cash in on the success of Dhoni?

I’ve been extremely fortunate to be working with the finest directors in the country. Dhoni was an extremely loved film and it’s overwhelming that people still come up to me and have connected with me as Sakshi. This year is very special because along with my debut Telugu film releasing this month, I’m also looking forward to the release of my next Hindi film in June called Lust Stories produced by Ronnie Screwvala and Ashi Dua and directed by Karan Johar.