Mahima Makwana’s dream to be in Bollywood has finally come true. The actress, who has worked as a child actor and played lead roles in TV shows, will now be making her Hindi film debut opposite Aayush Sharma in Antim: The Final Truth, also starring Salman Khan. In a conversation with Bombay Times, Mahima talks about her journey from television to Bollywood and landing her first film. Excerpts:

I have always had the desire to try different mediums, and for a long time now, I have made conscious efforts towards it. I have lost count on the number of auditions I gave for film projects. I kept trying and faced numerous rejections. After Shubhaarambh, I auditioned for Antim, and in two days, I was selected for the project. After facing so many rejections, it becomes difficult to believe your ears when you hear a ‘yes’, and that too, from a director like Mahesh Manjrekar and superstar Salman Khan.

I play a strong, independent tea stall owner Manda, who is fierce and independent in a man’s world. When I met Mahesh (Manjrekar) sir, he told me that he wanted a girl who could act and not just be there in the film. He said, ‘I want you to pull off a character that will stand out.’ Though I have few scenes, I have tried my best to prove my mettle. I believe you can prove yourself even with a few scenes. Salman sir has a larger-than-life personality and Mahesh sir has made films like Vaastav, Natsamrat and Astitva, so obviously I was nervous, intimidated and completely obsessed with proving to them that I was the right choice for the film. When I met Salman sir last year on Bigg Boss, I was nervous to say a few lines, but I am happy he has put his faith in me. Mahesh sir gave me the freedom to perform. The character I play stands her ground against Rahulya, played by Ayush Sharma, and motivates him to do the right thing.

Now it is time to keep those thoughts aside because filmmakers are looking at actors as performers and not labelling them. An actor should be known for their work and not the medium they belong to. In the past, few actresses like Radhika Madaan and Mrunal Thakur have crossed the bridge and that is inspiring. To a large extent, web shows have also helped TV actors bridge the gap. Antim has a powerful script and a lot of promise for actors like us. I feel if he has given me Manda, it is my duty to justify that role.

Aayush became a good friend during the shoot of the film. He has put his blood, sweat, heart and soul into the character. Not just his physical transformation, but the way he dedicated himself to the script and role is impressive. Since he became a friend, there was no problem in enacting romantic scenes and Mahesh sir’s support helped us further. After playing a chocolate boy in Loveyatri, he could have easily settled for similar roles, but he has changed himself completely for Antim. He is an actor to watch out for.

I know that in the past two years, people have been watching content at leisure from their homes. So, filmmakers have to work harder to pull crowds to theatres, but we all know that nothing matches the enigma and magic of the 70mm screen. Yes, I am nervous, happy and hoping that audiences will come to theatre and watch my film. It’s a new journey and I have given my best. In future, too, I want to work with such creative individuals on interesting projects.