Born to famous parents, Sruthi Hasan is sexy and smart. She began as a singer in her band, Extramentals. Though her entry into filmdom with a Tamil project was shelved, she got to make her debut in Bollywood, opposite childhood friend Imran Khan in "Luck". Talented Sruthi is now making yet another debut as a music composer in her father's film-"Unnaipol Oruvan". Sruthi talks about her dreams, music and movies.
Did you always want to enter films?
I always knew that I wanted to entertain people and perform. It did not matter which platform I chose. I did theatre in school; I was an athlete. Performance went to various levels for me. What mattered to me was to push myself to do the best.
Why did you choose "Luck" for your debut?
Well, for starters, it had an unconventional plot. So I decided to explore it. The character was interesting; not a typical bubbly girl. She has a history, a past. she's tough and the whole concept was novel.
How has the response been?
The response for the film has been pretty mixed. Touch wood, I'm happy with the kind of responses I've received for my performance. I really appreciate this. I have a Facebook page where people keep in touch with me. They have been extremely supportive and that makes me happy.
How was it acting with your childhood friend? Was it a planned debut?
No, not at all. We have been friends for over 15 years. we kept telling each other that we would become actors but never did we think we would do that act together in the same film. All can I say is, it was a wonderful coincidence and I am happy because he was a good support.
Will you do Tamil films?
Of course, I will. After all I'm a Chennai girl. Bollywood is a nice industry to work in but Tamil cinema is also important because this is my home. Actually I don't like to split it up. it's Indian cinema at the end of the day I'm happy to be a part of this industry.
Your dad must have been a huge influence in your life.
I know a lot of people see him as a celebrity first. But for me he's never been like that. He's been a wonderful dad-extremely supportive, open-minded and encouraging. That was what helped me grow as a person, as an artist and become what I'm today.
What's next - movies, musci...?
Right now I'm very busy recording for "Unnaipol Oruvan". It's consuming my soul every day. I'm looking at a whole bunch of movies and more music. Right now my plans are up in the air; I don't like to over-plan. I'm not 43 or 45... I have time so I like to make wise choices for myself.
What is it like to be a part of your father's film?
Challenging, fun, wonderful... there are so many things I can say. I have just come back from a recording and all I can say is am elated to be working on such a wonderful project. To be working with a director who is so open-minded is great and to solloborate with my father in my own way is a big achievement, not just because he's my dad but because he is one of the most talented actors in India has today.
What's it like to be a star kid?
I don't know. I was never treated like one. I went to a normal school where nobody was bigger than the other. Even at home we had the same rules and regulations, same control over watching TV. The only time I felt that I was a star kid was when I attended dad's premiers. In fact, we were very removed from the stardom and I'm like anyone else-a very Chennai girl.
Tell us more about your band.
The band was formed because my best friend Krishna and I have known each other since we were four. he was the bass player and that's how we got around to starting it. But he's leaving now to study in the same school I studied in - Musicians Institute in Los Angeles. Another member is also going off to study. Right now I'm at a phase where I am reassembling the band. But music will never die. It's very much a part of my life.