SAIEE M MANJREKAR

When the sky you look up to is full of sparkling and spectacular stars, you grow up wishing to reach just as high and be as unique and vibrant as they are.

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Such is the story of the most steady debutant that has graced the steps of Bollywood in recent years, Saiee M Manjrekar. Born on December 24th, 2001 to actor parents Mahesh Manjrekar and Medha Manjrekar, Saiee's introduction to the film world was an undeviating journey since childhood. Along with being trained in dance, young Salee used to accompany her parents to their film sets and thus grew up seeing every aspect of filmmaking. From venturing into the industry as a child artist in Kaksparsh (2012) to debuting alongside Salman Khan in Dabangg 3 (2019), Saiee has evolved over the years to become an actor who can be trusted to play layered and empathetic roles.

Did you feel any pressure while debuting in 'Dabangg 3'?

It was a dream come true. I was 16 and I knew I wanted to act. God answered to my prayers and I didn't feel any pressure per se at that point. I probably feel it today but then, I was so blissfully unaware of the industry I was stepping into. I feel so much gratitude towards Salman sir for giving me that opportunity.

Did having accomplished parents influence your decision to pursue acting?

Growing up, I was mainly and mostly on sets and I saw the good, bad and ugly of every aspect of filmmaking. That's when I realised that I had an itch to do something on a film set, which then translated into the fact that I wanted to become an actor.

Share your experience of working in both Bollywood and Telugu industries.

Working in both industries has been such a fabulous experience. You get to learn so much about different cultures when you work in different languages. It's been amazing to work in a new industry and then come back home to do some work in my own language. It's an inspiring opportunity I am thankful for.

How was it working with Ajay Devgn and Tabu in 'Auron Mein Kahan Dum Tha'?