Shehnaaz Gill: I would like to do characters and films like Radhika Apte does – Exclusive – Times of

Salman Khan’s Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan has taken a surprising upswing at the box office on the last day of its opening weekend and everyone associated with the film has new hope. One of the actors from the film’s ensemble, Shehnaaz Gill is just as excited. Speaking to ETimes, she reveals what kind of career path and roles she wants to choose in the future. She also looks back at her journey from being a Punjabi actress to becoming a house-hold name across the country. Read on…
How do you look back at your journey, transitioning from being the ‘Katrina Kaif of Punjab’ to being Shehnaaz Gill?

I think I am bearing the fruits of my hard work and I will continue to do so. I am working on myself a lot and I want to be known for her my own identity.
What is the source of your inherent confidence?

I think God gives everyone some talent and I think confidence is my talent.

According to you, what are the similarities between you and Salman Khan?

Both of us are multi-talented – we can sing and act. I’ll also become a producer soon. He does a lot of masti and it’s fun working with him.

What was your reaction when Salman Khan offered you Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan?

Salman Khan calling you is a big thing. That he thought of me out of so many girls out there was special. He has always supported me and cared for me. In the film, I am just like how I am in real life.

What kind of cinema do you want to work in?

I want to do cinema that people will find relatable. I want to do all types of characters. I would like to do characters and films like Radhika Apte does. It is challenging and it creates a good image for you as an artist.

What is your process of improving your skills as an actor and a person?

I motivate myself by listening to good things. I keep myself away from negativity. I don’t listen to what people tell me. I try to do as my heart pleases. My gut feeling never goes wrong. I analyse people very well. I think God is with me. I can get out of any bad situation in life. God helps me find a way.

How would you describe your ambition?

I want to do good work as an actor. I would like to see myself as a brand ambassador. I want to see myself on big hoardings everywhere. I don’t want anything else. I want to live an artist’s life. I want to do everything that is related to this industry.

What do you feel about the collaboration of actors from North and South in KKBKKJ?

I feel lucky that I got to work with all these actors.

Are you getting more film offers? Do you want to see yourself leading a film as a solo heroine?

I am getting offers, but offers have to be good, no? Bhagwan kare mujhe sirf solo heroine ke hi roles mile. (I hope I get to do solo heroine roles only) But I would also like to do character roles. In single heroine films, heroes get all the credit.

If you had to choose between Salman Khan as an actor, singer, or producer – which one would you choose?

As an actor. Saari duniya unki style pe marti hai (Everyone’s a fan of his style). Heads turn even when he takes a walk. Swag se karenge sab ka swagat.