I took advice from Salman, says Kiara Advani

Kiara Advani, who marked her Bollywood debut with Fugly, didn’t have an easy journey in Bollywood. After a small role in M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story, which was mainly Sushant Singh Rajput’s film, the actress will next be seen in Abbas-Mustan’s thriller Machine. Looking back, Kiara feels happy about the way her career has shaped so far. In a candid chat, she spills the beans on her upcoming film, working with newcomer Mustafa and her career among, other things. Edited excerpts from the interview:  

How did you bag Abbas-Mustan’s Machine?
When my manager first told me about the film, I didn’t believe it. I was already convinced about taking up the project when they approached me. I have watched every film they have made, so I know that they give their heroines meaty roles. When I heard the script, I was 100 per cent sure of doing it. Machine was one of the biggest decisions I have taken in my life — it was the best narration till date. It is a typical Abbas-Mustan thriller.

What is your role in the film?
I am playing Sara who is a die-hard romantic. It is difficult to sum up my role in few lines. It is a thriller so if I say anything else, it will reveal a lot.

Was it a conscious effort to take up this film, given that Fugly didn’t work at the box office and Dhoni was technically Sushant’s film?
When I started with Fugly, I was excited that I was playing a raw and edgy character in the film. After I nailed the audition, I realised that the role wasn’t something I was comfortable with. During Dhoni, it was an opportunity to work with Neeraj sir that attracted me. Despite having a short role in the film, I had so much to do.

For me, content is also important. I just won’t sing and dance in a film. But when you have a chance to star in an Abbas-Mustan film, why will anyone let it go? I have been lucky to do films which have been different from each other.

Were you disappointed when Fugly didn’t work?
I was a little heartbroken considering it was my debut film. I went into a shell — I wasn’t aware how the industry functions.  I took advice from Salman Khan. He told me that I  just need to believe in myself. He told me to be patient and that good things take a while to come. I was waiting for good films after Fugly released. My second film was important. I kept waiting, and the period strengthened me. I would rather wait and do something worth while than take up bad films.

Are you happy with how your career has shaped up?
I am really happy that I started off with Fugly. It broke my inhibitions as an actor. It was like my training ground. Thanks to that, I value every little success and I will always be grounded.

How was it working with Mustafa?
He is a confident actor. I was very competitive with him on the sets. I met him in Georgia since we didn’t really do workshops. I asked him to do a few readings. He doesn’t come across as a debut actor. He has great knowledge of cinema.