I am living my dream, says model-turned-actor Nikkesha

Sheetal

“Give your best shot and be at peace with the outcome” is the mantra model and actress Nikkesha swears by. Her professionalism has made her one of the most sought- after models in the Punjabi music industry. The Haq Se actress has worked with the leading faces of music in Punjab, including Karan Aujla, Jazzy B, Ammy Virk and R Nait and is now prepping for a web series and a movie.

Excited about her Telugu outing, she gets candid about her experience, plans ahead and changes the pandemic brought in life.

n What do you feel about this sudden boom in the music industry?

I started out with music videos and with the pandemic in the picture, working for a music video has advantages as it involves a two or three-day shoot schedule. And it not only helps an artiste to stay in touch with his/her craft but also serves as a great source of entertainment.

n What kept you calm in these trying times?

I have never differentiated between modelling and acting. And never looked at Friday or any song release day as the Judgement Day. To be honest, I am living my dream. Songs and dance are all I ever wanted to do.

n How would you sum up the year 2020?

The main agenda of my life is to be happy. Last year was really amazing for me thanks to Bunty Bains and Jordan Sandhu’s song Do you Remember, from where my journey started. There was no stopping after that as offers for films poured in. The pandemic has postponed a few things but I got to an array of music videos to do.

n A place close to your heart in Punjab?

Amritsar, for the food and the Golden Temple. Also for cleanliness and space, I like Chandigarh.

n What are you looking forward to?

I have just completed a Telugu movie and I am working in another regional film. Also, by next year you will see me in a Punjabi movie and a Hindi web series. There are two more songs lined up with singers Deep Jandu and Gur Sidhu.

n Where do you see yourself five years from now?

Rather than getting ahead of myself, I believe in living in the present. Meri kismet da likheya, mere kollon koi le ni sakda, so that’s all that counts. The rest is up to the universe and God. I am not concerned about the outcome but giving my best shot at every opportunity.

n Any lockdown realisation?

The present is all we have. Speak your heart out. Love fully and seize the day.

n Your favourite chapter from the book of ‘quality time with family during pandemic’?

I spent the lockdown in Canada. It wasn’t annoying at all. I enjoyed making the most of it and learnt much more about my parents that I didn’t know earlier. The favourite chapter from that fantasy escape was our walks together, barbecue nights and family swims. My father learnt cooking and mom mastered the game, Sequence.

n Have you ever thought of taking a shot at singing?

I am doing riyaaz. I am not sure if I will be a professional singer one day. I do love music and I hope to showcase my talent.

n What made you say yes to Des Ae Tera?

Along with good music, a song has to offer something an artiste craves to showcase. In Karan Sehmbi’s song Des Ae Tera, I got to show a particular form of dance.

n What’s your go-to song?

Baari and Kya Baat Ay. I love romantic songs as I believe in love. A deep, caring, forever kind of soulful love.