1) Soniya, you have worked in both Hindi and Telugu cinema. Can you share what initially drew you to acting?
Well, I have always been fond of the camera and right from the beginning of my life, since childhood to be precise, I always loved being in front of the camera. To add to that, when I started watching movies, I was drawn towards the idea to getting to play multiple characters in a single life and that too for a limited period of time. I always thought I was made for the camera and the entertainment industry and henceforth, that's how I decided to channelize my work and efforts into it.
2) How did your parents react when you told them that you wanted to pursue acting as a career?
Well, it was quite a shocker for them. I have come from a place where more often than not, the thought around women and their lives are very stereotypical and orthodox. To break out from that space and try to do something on your own as an independent woman in itself was a big thing for my society. So naturally, they had their own inhibitions. But later, slowly and steadily when they realized that this is what I love the most and I am putting all my efforts into it, they too started being positive about it and the rest is history.
3) Who do you idolize as an actress?
I don't have anyone in particular as such. I really appreciate every hard-working woman out there. But I really love the grace and charm with which Sushmita Sen and Madhuri Dixit carry themselves in the entertainment industry. They are extremely rare and iconic in their own ways.
4) What do you miss the most about your hometown Agra?
Well, to be honest, apart from the feeling of living there, I really don't miss anything. The reason is whenever I want, I can always take out time and live there and enjoy everything I used to enjoy earlier before becoming a public figure and an artiste. But due to work of course I have moved out of the city. So, I would say just the feeling of being there always is what I miss but then life is all about sacrifices. You must be willing to give up on certain things and look ahead if you want more from your life. My ambition and professional goal is ahead of anything else. My work is my top priority.
5) Every actor faces struggles in their career. Can you tell us about some of the challenges you have encountered and how you overcame them?
Well, this is part and parcel of every artiste's journey. Just like many others, I too have given my share of auditions, failed many auditions, was clueless about where my life was headed and all that. I have been through all that. But that's where your resilience comes into play. Instead of cribbing about challenges, it's about not giving up on your dreams and staying dedicated with a never say never attitude. Mindset is everything and I truly feel I could conquer all the challenges because of my strong mindset. Problems and challenges will always be there. It's important to focus on solutions rather than crying about problems. That's how I see things.
6) Harassment of women, in one way or the other, is a serious concern in the entertainment industry. Have you ever encountered any situations related to this during your career, and how do you feel the industry can work towards a safer environment for all artists?
Well, there will always be few rotten apples in every industry. But it's important to look at it in a way that these rotten apples actually don't spoil the entire basket. Our entertainment industry is one of the most credible and respected industries in the world and hence, few odd elements can never have the power to decide the global narrative and perception of our industry. Yes, it is a true scenario and gender bias and things like harassment does exist. Luckily for me, I have never directly experienced anything like that, maybe because no one dared to take liberties with me because that's how I have always conducted myself. But it's a real thing and slowly with more awareness around things, it is getting better I am sure. It's important to do the right filtering is what I feel.
7) If you could change one thing about your industry, what would it be and why?
Well, nothing really. But yes, one thing would be to break away from typecasting. An actor is an actor irrespective of the medium, be it TV, OTT or movies. There's nothing like an OTT actor can't do TV or a movie actor can't do TV or someone with good reality show background can't do stuff like that. An artiste is an artiste at the end of the day and they are where they are because they have some talent right? Let's get done with typecasting. That's my only point. Rest, I am very happy with everything, by God's grace.
8) Who is the filmmaker you want to?
There are so many. I can keep naming so many. But yes, some of the names I must mention here are Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Shoojit Sircar, Imtiaz Ali, Sandeep Reddy Vanga, SS Rajamouli and Raj & DK. The list is never ending. All of them are so wonderful.
9) Are you following the current season of Bigg Boss? If so, who are your favorite contestants, and who do you think has the potential to win this season?
Well, unfortunately, I haven't really had the time to follow much of this season. Been quite occupied with my work. Maybe, I will be in a position to answer this later when I actually get to follow.
10) Participating in Bigg Boss is a significant experience for many. Do you feel that being part of the show has helped you professionally in any way, such as opening new opportunities or expanding your fan base?
Certainly yes. By God's grace, I had a loyal fan following down South and otherwise but Bigg Boss certainly enhanced the fan following at a Pan-Indian level. I am not sure about opening new opportunities because I don't think doing good work in a reality show is a gateway to getting good movies. Yes, good quality music videos happen and I am glad those happened. However, as far as movies and OTT work is concerned, one shouldn't look at Bigg Boss as a gateway to that. One should work hard from the scratches, do your training, give auditions and screen tests and follow the process. So yes, for me, it's been a bit of both.
11) With Diwali around the corner, how do you typically celebrate the festival?
Well, I usually look forward to celebrating with my family. However, this year, the schedule looks packed this month so I have to see if I can actually take out time to celebrate Diwali, let alone with family or otherwise. But yes, Diwali is subtle and sweet with family. I don't encourage crackers and noise pollution. Be considerate to senior citizens and animals and that's my own wish for people.
12) What are your upcoming projects?
Well, there's a lot happening. Some developments are on and the official announcements will take place in a month or two. I am not in a position to reveal now but some big stuff will unfold soon. Fingers crossed and looking forward to everyone's love and support.