Don't worry, be happy, says Puja Agarwal

Tell us something about your background…

I am a small-town girl, born and raised in Rajasthan. I’ve studied acting from New York Film Academy, Los Angeles. Not many would know that I am a boxer and also trained in mixed martial arts.

How has been your professional journey? What are the prominent projects that you have done so far?

I have done several TV commercials for corporate brands. Recently, I did a music video titled Mere Sukh Bhi Tere Nain for T-Series. I have done two short films, Happy Anniversary and Fear Of God, and full-length features such as Tryst With Destiny, Simmba and Firebrand. My career has been satisfying so far.

Your short film Happy Anniversary went live on Hotstar recently. Tell us about that…

I play Pallavi in Happy Anniversary. She is upset about how the handsome guy she met on Tinder is now ignoring her. Pallavi’s character is important to the plot and connects the dots in the story.

Any interesting incident or BTS moment from the shoot that you would like to share?

Pallavi’s character is shown as a geek and one who enjoys eating keema (minced meat). But I am a vegetarian in real life. So, what I am eating onscreen is actually soya keema. I promote vegetarian food and therefore was very clear from the beginning about it.

What is the feedback that you have been getting?

People are loving my character and I am thankful for all the positive feedback coming my way.

Who is your favourite actor and what is your dream role?

I look up to Aamir Khan. He is the reason why I have chosen this profession. I like all films of Aamir Khan; right from Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak to Taare Zameen Par. As far as my dream role is concerned, I want to play a warrior in an action film.

Do you think bold scenes are necessary in web films and series?

In today’s era where filmmakers are focusing on cinematic realism and even audiences want to watch realistic cinema, it’s totally fine to have such scenes if the story demands it. But the scenes need to be shot aesthetically. Bold scenes are anaccepted norm in web series these days. It’s an individual choice. As an actor you need to go with the script.

How have you managed to stay positive during the pandemic?

I’ve always been a self-motivated person. Meditation, surya namaskar, reading, and waking up at five am are a part of my daily routine, which keeps me happy. If you stay positive even in a negative situation, you will win.