While most Bollywood debutantes prefer a lead role opposite a male actor for their first break, one of South India’s most popular actresses, did exactly the opposite. When Regina Cassandra was revealed as Sonam Kapoor’s love interest in the recently released Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga, it did come as a surprise that she had chosen this role.
When asked why she decided to do a film that didn’t reveal her in the promos and whether she was okay with playing a lesbian partner to the lead actress of her first Hindi film, Regina says, “My first thought was, ‘Do I want this to be my first film.’ But I was Shelly’s (Chopra Dhar, director) only choice. That was obvious from how she pursued me to be part of this film. I loved the character, I loved the story and I was sold when I heard the script for the first time. I did have my doubts. But I am glad that I picked this as my debut.”
Girl bond
What’s interesting is how the real-life Regina is similar to her onscreen roles. She is affable, lively and always develops great friendships with her costars. Even on the sets of her first Hindi film, the actress struck a chord with Sonam. “Sonam is very easy to become friends with because she is very down-to-earth. I remember, one day, she offered to share her snack (a box of fox nuts) with me. I ate one at first and then couldn’t stop myself. I think I finished the entire box,” she shares.
Even in the South Indian film industry, Regina has nurtured some really special relationships with her co-stars, one of them being with Samantha Ruth Prabhu. When asked about her fondness for the actress, Regina says, “Samantha is a really good friend and I look up to her. I have seen her grow from being a model in Chennai to what she is today. That’s tremendous growth. I have utmost respect for her and she is always like a mama bear. She makes sure everyone around her is taken care of.”
Boho vibes
Fresh off the success of her Bollywood debut, the actress hopes she bags more roles in the Hindi film industry. But before that happens, Regina will be seen in the upcoming Tamil flick Party, a multi-starrer. When asked if competition in the film industry bothers her, she responds, “Competition is overrated. The meaning is differently portrayed. It is viewed with a negative connotation in the film industry. However, it is good to be competitive. As long as you respect your counterparts, it’s all good.”
Another important aspect about Regina’s personality is her fashion statement. Always dressed in earthy tones and natural fabrics, she is known for her fusion looks. “I have been told that I have a very boho vibe. I like clothes that have something to do with sustainability,” says the actress who was in Bengaluru to launch a new Peter England store.
ayeshatabassum@newindianexpress.com
@aishatax