By : Kavita Shyam
A sassy, smart and sexy Sri Lankan beauty caught everyone’s attention five years ago with her debut film Aladdin. Jacqueline Fernandez, the former Sri Lankan beauty queen entered Bollywood just for a lark and there has been no looking back since! She has worked her way up the ladder and has taken to Bollywood like fish to water. Many films old, lady luck has sure beckoned on this lovely lady with plenty of meaty roles in her kitty.
Jacqueline’s child-like innocence instantly draws you to her. Here’s more on the simple, free-spirited and uncomplicated pretty young thing…
Was acting always on your mind when you picked up a career?
It was floating around all the time in my mind but I never intended on it being in Bollywood. I knew I wanted to do something media related, even if it was acting and felt that I would be the aptly suited for this industry and nothing other than this.
You have always gone for different films and have always done fewer films
compared to your colleagues. Is this a conscious effort on your part?
Well, not really, I take what comes my way if I am really excited by it. The movies I have done so far are the ones I knew I wanted to do and I just wish there were more of those kinds coming my way! I was convinced about what I was doing in my films.
Were your folks skeptical when you decided on this career?
Not really, I have always been really independent and my parents never interfered. Even if my decision did shock them, I would not know though if they had anything else in their mind. However they always will support me and encourage me with everything I decide to do.
How has it been so far?
Well, definitely it has been a fantasy whirlwind for me.
Your decision to move from Sri Lanka to India, any regrets or has it been difficult?
Not at all, our cultures are very similar. At first it was just difficult being away from family and friends but then i got used to it and now I am settled down enough to feel at home here.
What kind of projects you are looking to work in now?
I am not choosy when it comes to the genre of a film but of course it has to be something exciting enough for me to want to jump on board immediately!
What do you like doing in your free time?
I love being a home body. I always find time to do at indulge in healthy cooking, baking, flower arranging, reading, writing, listening to music, and also because I travel so much I love creating albums, it is so much fun.
What does life mean to you?
It means tons of happiness and health, family and friends.
The first film which actually got you rave reviews amongst others was Kick. How do you think Kick benefitted your career?
Honestly, with Kick my career got a re-launch in Bollywood. The success of the film got me a good deal of recognition and help. I had the great opportunity to work with Salman and Sajid Nadiadwala made an amazing film.
How was it working with you co-stars, many of whom have been seasoned performers?
Such an amazing experience working with different actors, Saif is such a talented actor whose always ready to help, John motivates you with his focus and dedication. Deepika is down to earth and a thorough professional. Anil Kapoor is funny, sweet and an international star, and with Ameesha we had so much fun, she’s so girlie! Recently I worked with Ranbir Kapoor and Arjun Rampal who are fine and experienced actors. Ranbir speaks less on the set but in front of the camera he is magic. He has tremendous energy within; he does not like rehearsing and is a completely natural actor. While Arjun gets completely involved in the script. He is considered amongst the serious actors. I did some workshops with Arjun before we got cracking on Roy. And Salman has been a huge inspiration for me.
Who do you think is your biggest competitor amongst your contemporaries?
I don’t think I’ve reached that level to have competitors yet, I still have a long way to go before that!
How would you describe your wardrobe staples?
I believe in classics. I have no patience to go shopping to a store and try things on, so I end up shop online often. When I buy a piece of jewelry or an outfit, I see wearing it even a few years down the line, it should be in fashion.
Tell us briefly about your beauty and fitness regime?
It’s a combination of a healthy diet, and a skincare and fitness routine. As for my food I need some super foods, nuts, nut milks, quinoa, salads, green vegetables and fruits. I grew up in Bahrain which is always scorching hot, so I’d drink plenty of coconut water to keep myself hydrated and it worked wonders for my skin. I also take a lot of juices and smoothies. I also keep my skin hydrated by spritzing on rose, mineral or aloe vera water. I never forget my daily skincare ritual no matter how exhausted I am as we have so much make-up on our face every day.
With fitness, initially it was only about losing weight, but now I have a holistic approach. So I practice Hatha, Ashtanga or Iyengar yoga with cardio and strength training.
Words of advice to young girls who want to enter showbiz…
Don’t have unrealistic expectations out of things, work really hard, be extremely patient, always be positive and never ever lose yourself. This is the best way to approach life and this industry.
Jacqueline’s quick ones…
One thing about Jacqueline we did not know…
I want to own a zoo one day.
Sexiest man alive is… Nadal
Jacqueline’s dream man should be… loyal, noble and old fashioned
One romantic date you remember… Paris
The easiest way to woo Jacqueline is… Would be with flowers
The one thing that turns you on… Success
Love to you is… All that’s left
The real Jacqueline is…Fragile
The Indian Telegraph Sydney Australya