Exclusive: Cherry Mardia talks Jigariyaa

Cherry Mardia, a new face in B-Town, is already getting praises for her new film Jigariyaa along with her costar Harshvardhan Deo. Inspired from true events, Jigariyaa tells the story of Shyamlal Gupta (Shaamu) and Radhika Sharma (Raadha). Shaamu, the only son of halwaai Ramlal Gupta is a happy go lucky boy based in Agra. He spends his days writing sheyr-o-shayari admired by his motley group of good-for-nothing friends. Radhika, the only daughter of Pandit Shankar Dayal Sharma is a well educated and caring girl who helps her father in his endeavours as a social do gooder and a man of high reputation in Mathura. Shaamu falls in love with Raadha at first sight, who is visiting her Nani’s house in Agra, thus begins his quest to find this elusive girl in the streets of Agra. As they grow fond and close to each other, the destiny takes another turn and the two lovers break apart.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OhO08fqA5-o

We sat down with Cherry Mardia as this newcomer is about to make it on the big screen this weekend as she tells us about her inspiration on becoming an actress and working with her co-star on set along with how she is able to build her craft as a newcomer.Check out our interview with Cherry Mardia!

Let’s start off by asking what made you go into acting and what inspired you?

I think ordinary life inspires me. It’s my progressive interest in body language, understanding the subtle layers of human condition and behavioral sciences that attracts me to acting.

What is your character like in the film Jigariyaa and who do you play? Can you relate to her in your current life?

Her name is Radhika and she’s a soft placid girl from Mathura with a benign appearance. Well-spoken and well-mannered and is educated. She’s religious and a favorite amongst all in the family. I relate to her because I’m too a favorite of my grandma and uncle (as shown in the film)

How did you bag the role for the lead character in the film?

It’s the usual drill of getting your pictures done and going for most auditions. The director stumbled upon a picture of mine where I’m cladded in a traditional wear and he thought this looks very close to radhika n so I was called in for further auditions n look tests.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXbpDZFMbBo

There is a holi track which is one of my personal favorites where you throw holi to Harsh. How fun was it shooting that music scene for the movie?

True. It’s my favorite track too! I have played years of missed holi together for 3 days in tht song. It was a lot of fun. We have played the traditional holi of Mathura where the girls hit the guys with a stick.

Your costar Harshvardhan Deo plays the male lead – and you both bring back the 80’s romance in this film. How was it like working with him and did you know of him before shooting the film?

He’s high octane, enterprising and very dynamic. At the same time very sensitive and supportive too. He has entertained me 24/7. I couldn’t have asked for a better Co actor for this film.

At a previous launch, many film directors were and are praising the films script and trailer, how does it feel to get such amazing comments from well-known established producers and directors in the cinema

I’m truly blessed and crazy excited to receive such compliments. And I’m waiting for more to come

If not acting, what would you be doing?

Meditating, Mostly in the Himalayas. (Which I will eventually)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9BAZ2afMRc

Many newcomers are launching in the Hindi Cinema world and competition always plays a factor. Do you feel pressure at all with this film launching?

I feel happy that faith has been instilled in me by our director producer. I can’t work from a negative space like pressure or competition. I think I’m enjoying this ‘first movie’ experience and trying to dwell in all kinds of emotional waves that it is bringing along with it.

What’s in store for Cherry Mardia after this film?

A good life!

Lastly, as this is your first major film – have you learned anything from the makers and how have you been able to build your craft after shooting this film as each film is a learning curve?

I have gotten technically more sound and familiar with a shoot setting. I’ve learnt team work and sportsman spirit.