“When you grab the opportunity destiny will work” says MONIKA RAVAN

In this exclusive and intimate email interview for Mayapuri and bollyy.com, sprightly and vivacious "One Day-Justice Delivered' actress Monika Ravan tells JYOTHI VENKATESH that the casting couch happens to everybody as such evil guys are everywhere but you need to use your mind and find your way out.

How did you get your break as an actress?

It was never decided although when I was in college I used to watch TV and aspire to become an famous actress one day but it was only after doing my dentistry I thought of doing something different.

I stepped out of my comfort zone and gave audition for a Punjabi film in Bathinda and was selected. My very near dear friend named LG Diamond promised my parents to get me home back safely after audition. My mom allowed me and my dad accompanied me to my shoot the first time.

Was acting in your mind since childhood?

Never. I used to watch TV and use to copy the hook step of the songs and I was good at it but I am from a small town and I was not in that type of entertainment circle where I can get the chance of acting in any TV or film project but it was after my first project I never looked back and kept on doing small projects whatever came to me.

Why did you want to be an actress?

I wanted to become an actress because I enjoy doing it and we get to roam around the world. Also I want to influence people on so many things because when you are famous, the public automatically follows you and listen to your thoughts and I think if I get to change one’s mind, I consider my life a success.

To what extent do you believe in destiny?

I believe a lot in destiny. If something is destined to happen it will happen otherwise it won’t but destiny works when you work harder .When you grab the opportunity destiny will work.

Do you think luck is just an excuse for those who lack talent?

Everybody is talented but the biggest problem is that they just need to find out their talent

Were you not scared of casting couch?

This happens to everybody as such evil people are there everywhere but you need to use your mind and find your way out. I remember I was doing a film and the producer was harassing me on the set and I cried because I was so annoyed but then somehow I got out of it.

Who are your favourite actors and actresses?

As far as actors are concerned, it is Allu Arjun and among the actresses, it is Kangana Ranaut.

Which are the directors in your wish list?

Any director who casts me and sees the character that he has conceived in me is my favourite.

Is virginity a virtue in today's times or an out dated concept?

I think nothing is right or wrong. Whatever you think is right can be wrong in my mind and whatever you think is wrong can be right in my mind. It’s all about one’s perception and all about how you see the world.

Would you consider it a compliment if a man calls you sexy?

10 years back I would have been offended and annoyed but today I will take it as a compliment

Are you open to appear in a bikini and do lip to lip kisses on the screen?

No. I can never agree to appear in a bikini and do lip to lip kisses on screen

What kind of men put you off?

I am put off by a man who doesn’t respect a woman.

What is your take on MeToo syndrome?

Casting couch happens everywhere and not just in the entertainment field but also in politics corporate‘s etc. I think yes if a woman wants the world to know about her harassment she can be open about it but a woman or a man should not misuse it.

In today's times do you advocate a condom as an essential necessity for a woman?

I am a science student and I would recommend it every time because one hundred per cent it prevents you from HIV and other genital infections

Are you open to act in TV and web series too?

Yes

How would you describe yourself as a person?

I am a very kind person. I dance all day I and enjoy my own company so much I want to influence people with my thoughts if I get an opportunity any time anywhere.

I believe that life is very short and unpredictable so we should not waste it in hatred, fighting and gossiping. I do whatever I need to do and just live and let others live.