Actress Ihana Dhillon says the lockdown made her appreciate simple things

Mona

This kudi from Punjab has kept her love for the land alive. Born and brought up in Faridkot, Ihana Dhillon still takes interest in farm life, visiting her parents every second month, ensuring she keeps in touch with her family and roots. Ihana talks about life in the showbiz…

On a song

I love living small characters in music videos. My two recent ones are MeriAashiqui and Bewafa Tera MasoomChehra, both for T-Series, for Jubin Nautiyal. The latter has a sufi vibe to it. Glad that the videos have amassed great feedback.

Farm life for me

I was born and brought up in Faridkot on a farmhouse. Ours is an agricultural background. My dad was particular that we all must read and write Punjabi. As a kid, I would extend a helping hand in farming, like plucking fresh vegetables. I still do. Right from my childhood, my father has stayed my best friend.

Baby steps

My career in showbiz started with some modelling assignments in New York, where I pursued a few courses in acting. It was post moving back to Delhi that I took acting seriously and did a full-fledged course from Barry John Acting School.

Still a newcomer

The acting stint has been a great high. I got my first break in Punjabi film Daddy Cool Munde Fool. Hate Story 4 became my entry in Bollywood. About six–seven years in the industry and as many films, I still feel like a newcomer. I am not greedy for work, playing varied characters is what I strive for.

Happy go lucky

Punjabis around the world are known for their gregarious nature and amazing hospitality. Like any average Punjabi, I too love my food – saag-makkiki roti and rajmah-chawal topping the chart. Lately, I have been enjoying Thai and Italian cuisines. I have a major sweet tooth; peethi wale laddo and kaju barfiare my favourites. I am warm and friendly like all Punjabis; I enjoy my Punjabi happy go lucky spirit!

Playing favourites

I love Punjabi music and films. DiljitDosanjh is my favourite; he is deeply involved in the characters he plays. I have always admired Jimmy Shergill, as he is an amazing performer. I am also quite fond of Ammy Virk, Jassi Gill and Amrinder Singh.

Simple pleasures

The lockdown changed our lives completely. I was stuck in Mumbai all by myself for over a month. I felt more rooted through it all, started appreciating simple things once all over again.

Upcoming projects

Lots of films are due for release and some are still being filmed like Bhuj: The Pride of India and Radhe. Punjai Golgappe, Gulam and Bhoot Uncle Tussi Great Ho are the others in pipeline. There are two web series lined up as well.

mona@tribunemail.com