I know! I have never been this excited before on my birthday. I think there’s something to turning 21. My gang of friends have been telling me how this year has to be special in my life, and I’m going to make sure it turns out that way. I spent the entire day with family and friends and adopted two more kids. It’s too personal for me to reveal more details.
A child artist first and now, a heroine. Do you feel you’ve missed out on your childhood?
Fortunately for me, my parents have been with me through my growing years, and they never let me feel burdened. They have brought me up well, and I know I haven’t lost out on my childhood. I used to shoot only during vacations. And even if I had schedules during regular working days, it was only in the evenings. So, I finished my homework, played with my friends and did all that a regular girl gets to do.
When you started playing the lead, did you get treated by your co-stars like a kid?
Heck, no! Being the youngest in the lot definitely has its advantages, but I’ve shared a very professional relationship with my co-stars. In fact, I guess I’m lucky to have worked with all the top stars since I started my career. Even before my first film released, I had four more in hand.
Till date, you’ve been playing only happy-go-lucky girl in your films…
That’s probably the image that best suits me! (laughs) But, I’d love to experiment, and luckily for me, I’ve just signed a film in which I have a fleshed-out character. I can’t wait to start work on it.
You’re doing a lot of two-heroine films…
For me, script is the hero. When I sign a movie, I see what kind of scope my character has. InSingam 2, I play a school girl, and my character has several shades. Even in Vettai Mannan, I play a very strong, silent woman. In Vaalu and the Tamil remake of Ishq (which is being presented by Jayaprada), my roles are integral to the script.
Has criticism affected you?
Fortunately for me, I’ve only faced constructive criticism. Probably because I’ve been acting for a long time, I’ve learnt to take things in my stride. And my biggest critique, my mother, always has good things to say about me!
Is Bollywood on the cards?
I’m happy doing films in the south. People have accepted me, and have showered me with love. I’m happy here, and have no plans to shift focus now!
Some things you didn’t know about Hansika
Her mobile is her third arm
Writes a journal every day
Still gets pocket money from her parents!
Cleans her high-end car herself every day
Indulges in painting often
