Jwala Gutta is rated as one of the world’s best badminton players. But it was the first time that she took a break from the sport and appeared in front of the camera for a Telugu movie. Yes, the famous badminton player surely raised many eyebrows when she performed an item song in Nithin, Nithya Menon and Isha Talwar starrer ‘Gunde Jaari Gallanthainde’, releasing on April 19th. According to her, she did this item song for her long time friend Nithin and that her complete focus is on her upcoming badminton tournaments only. Check out what Jwala said below in an exclusive interview with Ragalahari.
For the first time, you have faced the camera as an actress. What was that experience like?
Being from sports background, I’m not unaware about camera and its presence. But re-takes and camera focusing on you which wants that right expression, it’s tough. I was very nervous, So nervous that initially I had thoughts of giving up and going back home. But then later on I got used to it and loved my work.
How did you get involved with the project?
Initially, I was in a friends get together, and I was discussing with Nithin how I have been getting opportunities for movies which I have been declining. He then asked me about doing a song in the movie and my instant reaction was ‘Yes’ thinking he is prolonging the conversation. But later again when he asked me for it, I understood he was serious and then somehow I got convinced and gave it a try!
Tell us about your role in ‘Gunde Jaari Gallanthaide’?
There is no role as such. I’m gonna be seen in one of the songs of the movie, a club number enjoying myself with Nithin opposite me.
What was it like working with Nithin and rest of the unit?
My love and respect for movie industry has gone up after working with them. They literally work hard 24X7 to entertain the entire country. Nithin and the whole crew have been very very understanding and adjusting. I’m glad to be a part of it.
Do you have a favourite memory from being on sets of ‘Gunde Jaari Gallanthaide’?
(laughs) Well, I always made funny faces as soon as I did a mistake in my steps which was always noticed by everyone on the sets. And they kept asking me to hold on the expression.
Do you face difficulties in what you are doing now?
I’m learner in the industry and yes have faced difficulties which the team helped me over come it.
Are we going to see more of you on-screen?
Yes, you’ll be seeing me more on-screen now, but for my Badminton. I have been practicing 7 hours a day for my upcoming tournaments which is my prime focus.
Are you a film fan?
I love movies.
What movies or shows have you been watching lately?
My latest movie was GI Joe. Shows, I don’t watch because it’s difficult for me to keep track of it.
Who is your favourite actor in Tollywood?
There is no particular actor but yes I love Mr. Nagarjuna’s work.
Actress?
hmm. I don’t know. None actually! Or Myself, if I fall in that category (Laughs).
Apart from Badminton, what other game interests you?
I follow cricket.
Do you have any pets?
I have two pets. One is a pug and another is a French Bull dog.
Tell us about your personal style?
Most of my time is dedicated to badminton. I also like entertainment, so movies and music is what excites me. I make sure that I give time to my family and friends.
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would it be?
London, it’s my favorite Holiday destination.
What is your favourite restaurant in India and abroad?
I prefer home food but when I want to go out with friends, I end up going N grill. Abroad I try variety of foods. Nandos is one of my favorites.
Tell us about your sister Insi?
Insi is also busy shooting for movies. She has a done a role in ‘Back Bench Student’ and is getting a lot of other roles. More than me, she is keen in movie industry and I’m happy that she is taking up her dreams.
Going back to ‘Gunde Jaari Gallanthaide’, what is your favourite track in the movie?
I love the track I’m dancing on. ‘Ding Ding…’.
What would you say to the audience who like and appreciate your work in ‘Gunde Jaari Gallanthaide’?
Well, I would first like to thank Nithin and my choreographer for being so patient and also supported me throughout the shoot. Also, it’s because of their hard work and lil bit of mine (laughs) which is why audience is appreciating and looking forward to seeing me dance.
What would be the next big thing for you in the industry?
The next big thing is unpredictable like the song I did. Even this is big thing for me.
Ok, one last question. If you could give one last bit of advice, encouragement or inspiration to our wonderful readers, what would it be?
Well I have always said that you have one life to live, live to fullest. Do everything which comes your way. You need to believe in yourself more than anyone and that’s when you’ll overcome your fear.
Thank you so much Jwala for taking your time out for this interview. We are confident that our readers will be inspired by your dynamic attitude.
___Radhika Andluri ([email protected])
