Amyra Dastur’s debut film in Tamil, Anegan, with Dhanush, established her as an actress to watch out for in the Tamil film industry. She carried the entire film on her shoulders and managed to bring in variations in all the four characters she essayed in the movie. Amyra has been sort of MIA ever since, but made headlines after bagging the opportunity to star alongside Jackie Chan and Sonu Sood in Kung Fu Yoga, an action adventure comedy film.
As we catch up with this vibrant 23-year-old in an exclusive chat, we learn about her role in the ongoing Tamil film with Santhanam, her plans of venturing into production, her admiration for the Hong Kong legend, and much more.
Tamil sabbatical
After Anegan, I got tied up with a Bollywood project, two more Telugu films and a Tamil film. When my hands were full, I got Kung Fu Yoga, so I had to say no to all the offers! From November 2015 to June 2016, I was not even in India — so I lost offers across industries.
Not just a pretty face
If I am included in a film for just being pretty, I don’t think I can take it up. I need to play substantial roles. In fact, I don’t want to be famous; I want to be a good actor.
Her Role in ‘odi odi Uzhaikanum’
In Manikandan’s Odi Odi Uzhaikanum, I play Divya — a rebellious, stubborn and modern Tamil woman. Her character is a lot like mine. She is not very serious, but funny in her own way.
Knowing santa
I haven’t really followed his work too much, but I’ve heard a lot about him. I’ve always wanted to do a comedy flick and Santhanam is extremely funny. This film will be a great opportunity for me to try something different.
Tamil connect
Well, I can learn my lines much easier these days! I still haven’t learned the language fully and it might take a couple more films for me to master it. (laughs)
Santhanam as a person
He is really sweet and helpful. On the sets, when everybody converses in Tamil, he explains it to me in English, and we get the shot in a couple of takes!
10 years down the line
Hopefully, still acting! (laughs) I will keep working in the film industry no matter what. If not as an actress, I might be a writer or producer. I don’t think I will ever leave. I have also started my collaboration with a clothing website as fashion intrigues me. I am keen on producing films — films have the capability to transport you to a different world and I would want to do it.
Acting in a global project
Kung Fu Yoga is slated to release on January 28 across the globe. It is a typical Jackie Chan movie, in which I play Caira, a tough, sporty, fun woman, with a naughty side. You can obviously see a different Amyra in the film.
Chan’s Honourary Oscar
He deserves all the appreciation. It’s about time. He has done 200 movies. As a person, he is very giving, loving and fun to be with. I can’t think of anyone else more deserving for this award.
Who does Amyra follow?
I am a big fan of Vijay sir and Vikram. I saw his film I and I was at a loss for words. I loved his work in the movie. Also, I adore Kangna and Tamannaah’s work too.
On her dream role
I badly want to do a dance movie. Hopefully with Prabhudeva!
Are you seeing someone?
(chuckles) No, I am happily single.
