"I Listened to the Script of ‘Nikita Roy’ as an Actor, Not as a Sister" – Sonakshi Sinha

Known for her powerful performances in films like Rowdy Rathore, Dabangg, R... Rajkumar, Akira, and Son of Sardaar, Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha is currently in the spotlight for her upcoming film Nikita Roy. In Nikita Roy, Sonakshi plays the role of a detective. The story revolves around a godman (played by Paresh Rawal), who claims to liberate people from evil spirits. Recently, Sonakshi spoke to a media house about the film, her experience with co-stars, her career journey, and her personal life.

• Your brother Kush Sinha is making his directorial debut with Nikita Roy. When he approached you with the script, did you consider it as a sister or as an actor?

I listened to the script completely as an actor. Yes, Kush is my brother and this was his directorial debut, but my decision was entirely based on the story. I always look for roles that are challenging and engaging — and Nikita Roy had everything that appealed to me as a performer. There was mystery, a sense of investigation — something like the Nancy Drew stories we used to read as kids. When Kush narrated the story to me, I was completely drawn in. We worked together on it, and that’s how the film came to life. The fact that he is my brother was just a bonus, but my decision was purely professional.

• How was the experience of working on the film, especially with your brother as the director?

The environment on set was very professional. Kush never made me feel like I was his sister. We both took our roles very seriously. The fun part was that my brother was sitting in the director’s chair — and yet, there was no sibling squabble!

• How was your off-camera chemistry with your co-stars in Nikita Roy?

Working with Suhail Nayyar was a great experience. He’s a fantastic actor, full of positive energy, and a genuinely good person. It’s always a pleasure working with good people.

• What was that one ‘wow’ moment or element in the script that blew your mind?

The story itself was quite unique. But the biggest ‘wow’ for me was the opportunity to work with Paresh Rawal sir. When I signed the film, he was on the top of our wish list. I had even told Kush that if Paresh sir came on board, I’d definitely want to do it — though I never made it a condition. I’m always particular about my own character, but when you get to work with such incredible actors, it truly enhances the experience.

• This is producer Vicky Bhagnani’s first film. What was your experience like working with him?

As you said, it was his first film as a producer, and I had a really pleasant experience working with him. He’s a warm and sensible person. I think it takes real courage to decide to release your film in theatres — especially when you’re producing for the first time. I wish him all the very best.

• You began your career as a costume designer. How did the switch to acting happen? Was it planned or a twist of fate?

I think it was purely fate. I had studied fashion design and was doing very well — I was the student of the year and topped every subject. Then suddenly Dabangg came into my life and I never looked back.

• Is there a kind of role that’s still on your wishlist — something that would reveal a new side of you as an actor?

I haven’t done a biopic yet, and I’d love to. Our country has so many incredible real-life stories that deserve to be told. If I find a story that I fit into well, I would definitely want to do it.

• How much has the industry evolved when it comes to women-led films? Are such stories getting more opportunities now?

I think such films were always being made. It’s just that now they’re being tagged as ‘female-led’. Think of Seeta Aur Geeta with Hema Malini, ChaalBaaz with Sridevi, or Khoon Bhari Maang with Rekha — all strong women-centric films. Today, characters are being written even better, and as a female actor, it’s heartening to witness this change.

• What’s the biggest difference you’ve observed in Bollywood between when you started and now?

There’s definitely more professionalism and structure in how things work now. But due to social media, privacy has taken a hit. The paparazzi culture has exploded — you can’t even eat in peace! These are things I don’t enjoy, but I absolutely love my work, and that’s the best part of it all.

• Which female actors have inspired you?

So many — Vidya Balan, Huma Qureshi, and Madhuri Dixit. I still get excited every time I see Madhuri ji!

• You recently launched your beauty brand. What was the idea behind it, and how does it reflect your personality?

Yes, I launched a press-on nails beauty brand called SoEzi. It’s a part of my entrepreneurial journey. I believe every woman should be independent. This brand gives me the chance to explore the business world and express myself in a whole new way.

• Your chemistry with Zaheer on social media is adored by fans. Are those reels pre-planned or spontaneous?

Not at all planned — they’re super organic. Sometimes Zaheer does something silly and records it, and it ends up being really funny. If our posts can make someone smile, that means a lot to both of us.

Sonakshi Sinha’s film ‘Nikita Roy’ is set to release in theatres on July 18. Apart from Sonakshi, the film also stars Arjun Rampal in a significant role.

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