Singer Saru Maini has taken to acting and is making her debut in the Hollywood film ‘5 Weddings’which stars Rajkummar Rao and Nargis Fakhri in the lead roles. She talks about her passion and her future projects in a conversation with Roshni Rajagopal.
What genre of music do you make?
I don’t have a specific type, but most of my songs have a Punjabi touch, especially my album ‘Ishq Hua.’ I like singing songs that are soulful. But sometimes, being a playback singer, I have to do some commercial songs as well.
Hailing from Bengaluru, how did you get into the Hindi music industry?
I really didn’t spend too much time in the city. I studied in Chandigarh, and am living in Mumbai for the past 10 years. I love the city, but I feel more comfortable in Mumbai as my work is here. I had to go to Chandigarh for the shoot of this film, but most of my music-related work is here. As a debut actress, I think Mumbai is the best place for me to be.
How was your experience as an actor and singer?
I really loved the whole experience, and intend to explore acting further. Acting with Rajkummar Rao and Nargis Fakhri was fun, and I also understood their professionalism. There was a moment where Rajkummar prompted a supporting actor during the shoot apart from learning his dialogues.
What is your takeaway from your latest film ‘5 Weddings?’
Well, I learnt a lot during the shoot of this film, and more importantly, I learnt a lot about my skills as well. During the shoot, there were people coming up to me asking for autographs and contact information to hire me for events. It was quite embarrassing for me, especially because Nargis and Rajkummar were there and the director was a bit upset.
How supportive is your family about your career choice?
My family wanted me to become an IAS officer, and I was capable of it. They really loved my album and my work in ‘5 Weddings’. They also like my character ‘Bhavna’, an energetic and bubbly girl who wants to make it big in the music industry. But, they didn’t like me working for the film ‘Dangerous Husn.’
What are your plans for the future?
I want to further pursue a career in acting, and wish to be identified as an actress. I love making music as well and wish to take after Ayushman Khurrana. I want to pursue both, but I think I need to focus on acting for now as there is a lot to learn, and I know that I can go back to singing whenever I want to.
What other skills do you possess?
I think I have a knack for designing. I picked out most of the costumes for my music videos, and some of the costumes in the film as well. I also do interior designing. I designed my house in Mumbai, after which Mika Singh approached me to design his home. I don’t do it professionally, just for a few close friends.