Swara reveals why Kareena is a masala film, reacts to being called 'Nirma girl'

She does off-beat roles, takes on trolls and speaks her mind with such pizzazz that she makes it look easy. In her upcoming film, Veere Di Wedding, Swara plays a rich father’s spoilt daughter. She talks about the film, relationships in Bollywood and more.

Doesn’t follow the rules
Swara is most happy when she’s doing unusual roles in interesting films, irrespective of what everyone else may say. “I choose films on my own terms. When I signed Nil Battey Sannata people in the industry told me not to play a mother at my age. But I went on to play a mother to a 15-year-old. Playing a friend or a sister of the lead character is also a strict no-no for an aspiring actress, but I played Kangana’s friend in Tanu Weds Manu and Salman Khan’s sister in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo. Those roles took my career to the next level,” she says.

Success hasn’t come easy for her, and she doesn’t regret any of the films that she has done. “I have had my share of struggles for almost four years. Upon landing Raanjhanaa my efforts bore fruit. I have played a variety of characters and I am happy about that,” she says.

Friendships in bollywood
Swara feels the belief that actors cannot be friends is just a myth — lots of friendships thrive in the industry. “I share a very close friendship with Sonam Kapoor. We are human beings, so obviously we need friends. After working with Salman Khan I have gotten to know Alvira a bit, and I can that say we are friends,” she says.

On Salman Khan
It comes as no surprise that the actor is a fan of Bhai. “He is one actor who, despite having the stature that he does, will always listen to your dreams, patiently. He will even give you tips and try to help you fulfil your dreams. Salman takes the ambitions of others seriously,” she says.

‘Kareena is like a masala film’
Swara is all praise for her co-star. “I love Kareena even more after sharing a working relationship with her. She is an amazing person and she’s very funny. Kareena can easily capture the attention of anyone, she’s that entertaining. While talking to her I feel like she is a masala film,” she says.

Apart from her vibrant personality, Swara is also in awe of Kareena’s work ethic. “Kareena believes in doing her job. She is not bothered by anything written about her. During her pregnancy, she steered ahead superbly. And after giving birth, she has gone back to work and maintained herself so well. All Indian women should learn from her live for yourself first, and then for your family. Unless you love yourself, you cannot share your love with others,” she says.

On social media
Swara has never shied away from speaking her mind on social media, but she refuses to stoop to the level that trolls often do. “I am of the opinion that we need not use abusive language while discussing a topic on social media. I always like to put forth my opinion with respect. I don’t like to get into discussions with people who come at me in anger. It’s high time people understand that it’s just a discussion,” she says.

Swara recently made an appearance in an all-white dress at the music launch of Veere Di Wedding, and the Twitterati was quick to point out that she looked like the Nirma girl. Taking the comments in her stride, she responded with, “Very observant I must say guys. @ministry_of_bollywood Reminded me of my childhood ambition! I always wanted to be the “washing powder Nirma child! (sic).