Parineeti Chopra On Bouncing Back After Depression

Right from her debut film, Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl, Parineeti Chopra had audiences enthralled with her unrehearsed ease in front of the camera.

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Ishaqzaade and Shuddh Desi Romance further positioned her as an actress with a new age vibe and an old-world sensibility. This interesting contrast made her the it girl. But a career lull followed by a voluntary break kept her in the side-lines for a while.

Yet that phase brought in enriching moments of epiphany that changed her forever. She realised that her adventure with her art is incomplete without the joys of the heart. That there's a life beyond the arc lights, where you come to home to love, family, friends and lots of laughter. She's not only undergone a physical revamp but some soul rejuvenation as well. Happiness is now her only pursuit ñ be it professional or personal. With Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar, Kesari and Jabariya Jodi coming up in 2019, she's set her sights on a smashing innings. Yes, she truly believes in herself.

You shot Ishaqzaade in Lucknow. Now you're back in the city shooting for Jabariya Jodi

The difference is that while shooting Ishaqzaade (2012), my debut Ladies VS Ricky Bahl (2011) was not released. I was a nobody at that time. After shooting Iíd visit Hazratganj market for shopping. I'd enjoy the chaat and kebabs. Nobody even looked at me. Today, I can't step out without security. I can't go shopping like before. But I'd call this a happy problem. Ishaqzaade brought me fame. Now, when I'm back here shooting for Jabariya Jodi, there are so many fans. The same city has changed so much for me.

What about the delicacies?

(Laughs) No, Iím on a diet. I want to look good in the film. While shooting Ishaqzaade, Arjun (Kapoor) and I'd eat a lot. But now we both have become weight conscious and disciplined. My brother, Shivang, has come here. I'm treating him to kebabs, nalli-nihari, biryani.

This is the first time you're playing a Bihari girl. What are the challenges?