Kavita Awaasthi (HINDUSTAN TIMES; January 23, 2020)

She is the new star kid on the block, proud of having made it on her own. Alaya F, who debuts with the Saif Ali Khan-Tabu starrer, Jawaani Jaaneman, talks about working with her talented co-stars, and how she got used to having the camera in her face and learned to deal and behave in tough scenarios. Excerpts:

Your debut film is about coming of age. When was your coming-of-age moment?
My growing up moment was when I decided to become an actor and did it by myself and in my own capacity. Dealing with the realities and responsibilities of life has been something. Today, I am financially independent and with my mother, Pooja Bedi, living in Goa and brother away studying, I’m pretty much alone in the city, managing my life and house.

What were your impressions of Saif before and after working with him?
I knew of him as a talented actor, smart and witty. After working with him, I realised he was all those things and more. Now, I’ve also realised that he is so approachable and giving as an actor. He wants what is best for the film. His dedication reflects in everything he does.

Tabu is the other senior co-star you have in the film…
She is a phenomenal actor. When I met both Tabu ma’am and Saif, I was intimidated but they made me comfy and were always ready to help. While shooting with her, I would observe her act and be blown away by the nuances she added to each scene.

What is the biggest draw and downside of being Pooja Bedi’s daughter?
The biggest plus of being her daughter is that I know how to be in front of a camera. I was always used to having the camera in my face and one learns how to be composed and behave in certain situations. I think I found who I was while being in the public eye. As for drawbacks, there are certain expectations. I have tried hard to build my own life, career and image because my mother is very, very, hot. The roles she played were very hot and that was what she was best at and enjoyed doing. As for me, the cinema I want to be a part of is different. I am excited to work and prove myself.

What kind of movies interest you?
I’ve enjoyed Hindi cinema and even Southern cinema, which has some great films. But the new Bollywood today is content-driven and has wonderful roles for women, which excite me. Of course, the old Bollywood has its own charm, but the current phase has lots of interesting content.