My role in TJMM is so different from what I am in real life- Cinema express

Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar marked the first collaboration between childhood friends Ranbir Kapoor and Shraddha Kapoor. The chemistry was there for everyone to see as the Luv Ranjan directorial, which was released on the festive occasion of Holi, has become quite the rage, despite middling responses from the critics. Here, we have Shraddha talk about all things TJMM.

Excerpts from the conversation

You teamed up with Ranbir Kapoor for the first time in TJMM. How was the experience?

He has been a brilliant actor right from his first film, and I was always curious to know how he gets it right almost every single time. I imagined he must have a complicated acting process, but he’s quite lowkey on sets. When the camera is on, however, he transforms completely.

Was working with him a factor behind signing the film?

Not at all. In the past, I have been offered films with actors I have great appreciation for, but I let go of those because I didn’t like the script. Be it Teen Patti, Love Ka the End or Aashiqui 2, it was never about who I was cast opposite. I am clear about what  I look for: a good director, a good script, and a challenging character to play. TJMM ticked all the boxes. It was a role I had never attempted before—very relatable, but different from what I am in real life.

Tell us about being on a Luv Ranjan-set

He creates a world of his own, and yet knows the pulse of the audience. For the first time, I had to absolutely surrender to the director’s vision. He is thorough and strict on sets, and made me do several retakes until he was satisfied. 

You are returning after a gap of three years (last seen in Baaghi 3 in 2020). Were you ever concerned about not having work?

I have always been secure as an actor. After Teen Patti in 2010, there was a gap of a year. Then, once again after my second film, Love ka the End, I had no work. It was only after Aashiqui 2 a decade ago that projects started pouring in.

A lot of your peers have ventured into the OTT space. Do you have any streaming content in the pipeline?

I love the big screen, but if I am offered a good role, I don’t mind exploring OTT.