She’s been part of showbiz for over a decade and actress Pooja Chopra has had her share of ups and downs. The Aiyaary actress was in the city recently and we met her for a quick chat in which she spoke about her journey in the film industry, her love for Pune and more: Excerpts:

Reflecting on her professional journey, the actress said, “I have never networked, and I never had any godfathers or mentors in the industry. My success is my own, as are my mistakes. I’m not here to compete with anyone. It can be challenging to work in a city like Mumbai and it’s very easy for people to spiral into dejection due to the struggle. But I have been persistent and will keep working hard.”

 

Pooja added that during tough times, she finds solace in spending time with her family and her furry friends. “Being around my loved ones and my dogs gives me happiness,” said the actress.

She added, “As for my work, it is the innate sense of security, confidence, and love for my job that fuels me.” She also shared that her mother has been the biggest cheerleader in her life. “I’m so proud of the fact that my mother has been there with me on this journey. She has given me wings to fly and kept me humble and grounded throughout,” she said.

Pooja has explored many roles and appeared in several projects throughout her career. However, she feels that the film industry still has a long way to go in terms of pay parity. “Films mostly had a male prerogative before, but now we have female-centric films which are doing really well. But there’s a long way to go before there’s pay parity in the industry. That said, I do see a future where women get paid equally as their male costars, or even more. That’s something I would love to see,” she said.

While she doesn’t call herself a social person, Pooja made it a point to attend the A R Rahman concert in the city recently. “The energy at the concert was electrifying!” she shared. When asked which international artist’s concert she would love to attend, she replied, “Harry Styles! I’ve watched a few videos of his songs online and I think he is so much fun.”

Although she considers Mumbai to be her karmabhoomi, Pooja said she wouldn’t call herself a Mumbaikar and that her heart is always in Pune. “My connection to Pune is extremely special,” she shared. Having completed her education from the city, Pooja is aware of the hangout spots and popular food joints here.

“No cake can replace the ones you get at Kayani Bakery. Then there’s the vada pav at Garden Vadapav Center, the cheese omlette and bun maska at Vohuman Cafe. I also miss having cheese tomato uttapam from Madhuban! Going to these places to eat, watching movies at the old theatres and going to Sinhagad Fort — these are some of the fondest memories I have of my time in Pune,” said Pooja.