28th May 2023,Mumbai: Actress Avantika Dassani is set to make her grand entry into Bollywood with the film “U Shape kiGully” alongside Vivaan Shah, following her breakthrough performances in the popular OTT series ”Mithya” and a Tamil movie. Currently, the movie is being filmed in the enchanting city of Lucknow.
Reflecting on her career, Avantika expresses, “I refuse to confine myself, as the industry is undergoing a significant transformation.” Taking a break from the shooting, she adds, “In today’s times, nobody really knows what works or doesn’t! As an actor, I don’t want to hold any preconceived notions. I simply want to remain open to exceptional filmmakers and captivating storylines.”
Driven by a desire to explore new avenues, Avantika is motivated to take small yet daring steps. She states, “I chose ‘Mithya’ for my debut in the OTT space because it was a role that nobody would have expected me to do. In my second venture, a Tamil film titled ‘Nenu Student Sir’ starring Bellamkonda Ganesh Babu, I play the role of an ordinary girl-next-door with a simple soul. For my Hindi film debut, I aspire to shock the audience with unconventional characters. With high expectations surrounding my debut, my goal is to exceed those expectations.”
The gender balance in a film doesn’t concern Avantika. “What matters to me is the story and the contribution I can make to it. I am determined to carve my own path as an actor. This project, my third one, is a continuous learning experience for me. On set, I engage with people daily and make an effort to grasp the unique Lakhnawi lehjaa, distinct from the Mumbai dialect.” Avantika acknowledges the support of her director, Avinash Das (known for “Anarkali of Aara” and “She”), in this journey.
Looking ahead, Avantika eagerly anticipates filming the second season of the OTT series. She mentions, “There are a few exciting prospects on the horizon, but I prefer not to divulge details until official announcements are made.”
Avantika admits to consulting her mother, renowned actor Bhagyashree, for her valuable opinion on projects. “When I am truly confident about a proposal, I share the script with my mother and seek her guidance. Her wealth of knowledge about the industry boosts my confidence.”
During her time in Lucknow, Avantika is thrilled to explore the city. “I visited Aminabad to savor delicious kulfi with Jaaved(Jaaferi) sir. I also wandered through the Old City. It’s truly fascinating how, after spending six months here for a literary festival, I am now filming in the same location where my brother (Abhimanyu Dassani) shot ‘Nikama’.”
-by Kashvi Gala