She has been lauded for her role in the recently released ‘Khuda Hafiz’. Hardworking and outgoing Shileekha Oberoi talked to Ravi Raj Sinha
Tell us about your journey:
My journey from the beginning has not been very easy from assistant director to my debut film. I have done ads, modelling, behind the camera work too. As an assistant director I worked in movie ‘Kick’ and ‘Housefull 3’. Then I think I auditioned for about 100 times to finally get my debut film ‘Ye saali Aashiqui’. ‘Khuda Hafiz’ is my second film for which again I went through auditions for about 8-10 months. Then I came to know that I have been selected and am doing a role opposite Vidyut Jamwal.
When did you decide to become an actor?
Well, when I was 5-6 years old and I used to watch all the movies of Kareena Kapoor and imitate her while watching her. My Mom kept observing me and one day she declared that Shivleekha is going to become an actor! But then, she told me categorically that first I have to complete graduation and then I can do what I want to do. When I was 16, I started giving auditions and joined diploma course in ‘An Actor Prepares’. Later I did some print shoots and advertisements. But working as an assistant director was very useful because that way you get to know about acting. Being an outsider, this job gives you a concrete idea about how to prepare and polish yurself as an actor.
How was it working in ‘Khuda Hafiz’ with Vidyut Jamwal who has made a place for himself with great action scenes?
Khuda Hafiz is a thriller based on true love story and I think while watching this movie people perception towards love would be changed and this is something strong and a new content with different ideas. My experience working with Vidyut was fantastic. He is experienced and taught me many things. He is kind and caring. He was good co-Star.
I faced many difficulties but I have worked hard to prepare myself to make a career in acting. Outsiders have to work hard. But if you have talent then no one is going to reject you.
What’s your opinion about the ongoing debate on topic nepotism in the film industry?
I think nepotism is not always bad. There are many good actors who are insider. I can say outsider and insider get equal platform. If I say my journey as an outsider was not easy, it’s true for the insiders too. To make a mark in the industry is very tough for everyone. We can say Ayushmann Khurrana is also an outsider but everyone appreciates his work. I can easily say he is in the list of top 5 actors. Audiences are smart, they know the best. And as far as nepotism is concerned, I think it exists in every field.
Who was your inspiration?
Kareena Kapoor has been my inspiration. Right since my childhood, I started acting while watching her. And if I think I would like to dance like Madhuri Dixit.
