Freida Pinto on venturing into Bollywood

Actor hopes to mark her B-town debut with a female director; revels in being a global citizen.

Actor Freida Pinto came to the fore as a breakout star in Danny Boyle’s Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire (2008). As she gears up for the release of her upcoming film, the Natalie Portman and Christian Bale-starrer Knight of Cups, she also expresses her keenness to star in a Bollywood film, reported the Deccan Chronicle.

Pinto hopes that she gets to work with a female director when she tries her hand at Bollywood. “I want to work in Bollywood. I never said that I’m not interested in working in the Bollywood film industry,” she said. Although she had multiple opportunities to star in Bollywood films in the past, other work commitments prevented her from opting for them. “There were times when I liked the scripts, but as I had already committed to other films in Hollywood, I couldn’t take up on the offers,” she added.



The 30-year-old, who is more recognised for her work overseas than in her hometown India, said she revels in her status of a global citizen. “I always wanted to be a global citizen. I knew I had to pack my bags, go out and establish myself on the global platform. That was my dream,” she shared. “I could do that because I had the right education. I have transcended all the possible limitations. I hope my story can inspire other girls.”

Born and raised in Mumbai, Pinto credits her strong roots with keeping her grounded in a foreign land. “India has taught me a lot. Be it the people or the hardships we face, they teach you great lessons. I don’t get shocked when I see poverty in any country because I have seen it in my own country. India has made me value relationships,” she commented.

Cautious of being typecasted due to her Indian origin, she said, “When I go to a filmmaker in Hollywood, I don’t present myself as someone who has come from some other country. I go there as an actor.” She added, “When I choose a role, I look at it in terms of its content rather than the fact that I am an Indian and should do specific kind of roles. When it comes to work, I just think like an actor.”



The You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger star feels Hollywood is more accepting of different ethnicities and bases decisions purely on talent. “Stereotyping of Indian actors has reduced a lot in Hollywood. It is much easier now but had I entered 10 years back, it would have been difficult getting good work there,” she said.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 3^rd,  2014.

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