Sonakshi Sinha

“I think I have taken to Akshay’s style of working.”

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How do you plan on celebrating your birthday today?

I’m celebrating my birthday in Chandigarh by shooting. I might get a little time off once my family is here and I’ll be spending some time with them. It’s a working birthday for me as I’m in the middle of the schedule and I didn’t want to take a break.

From Dabangg to Dabangg 3, how has your rapport changed with Salman Khan over the years?

It hasn’t changed, it’s only got better. Our bond has grown stronger. I’m a lot more vocal with him than I was when I started out. Earlier I’d be extremely quiet when he was around. I couldn’t open my mouth. But now I can talk to him normally, as a friend. I can share my thoughts. It’s great to have that kind of an equation with someone like him. It was Salman, who suggested that I become an actor. Which is why I did Dabangg.

Were you nervous when you began shooting?

I didn’t want to act. So I was unprepared. Even though I come from a film family, I never enjoyed going to a set. I didn’t grow up watching movies. I was always into sports. So, facing the camera was a completely new feeling. I’d wonder, ‘Oh my God! What am I doing here?’ The newcomers today come so well-prepared. They attend workshops and acting classes. They’re ready to face the camera.

Khandaani Shafakhana dealt with a bold subject. What kind of response did it get you?