Showing posts with label Diana Penty interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Diana Penty interview. Show all posts
Life before the pandemic seems like a lifetime ago-Diana Penty
7:51 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; November 24, 2020)
There is no going back to what was considered normal. The Coronavirus pandemic has changed how we looked at life and people. Diana Penty spoke to BT about how the past few months have had a deep impact on her and changed her as a person. She said, “This has been a tough, unusual year for each one of us. The world we knew has changed and may never be the same again. Life pre-pandemic seems like a lifetime ago. But the past few months have given me some much-needed time off, which I was able to put to good use. It gave me the time to reflect, to introspect, think about life and my part in it. It was like hitting the reset button.”
The actress further explained, “I think the most important lessons I have learnt from this time are to be grateful for what I have, to never complain and to value the people that are important to me. We take a lot for granted in our busy lives. The pandemic has given me the opportunity to rectify that. I have always lived my life one day at a time, and these last few months have only reinforced the importance of that.”
Talking about what kept her positive, Diana said, “Through all the chaos, panic and uncertainty, I found a quiet comfort in the fact that we are all in this together. Adversity brings people together as people try to find hope — the hope that we will get through this, together. I am also grateful that I was able to be at home during the lockdown and wasn’t stuck out of town, away from family. Honestly, being with my family and my dog, Victoria, is what kept me going these last few months.”
I’d jump with joy if someone gave me an action film-Diana Penty
8:17 AM
Diana Penty on future plans, reuniting with Dinesh Vijan after her debut and why she hasn’t unleashed her domestic goddess online
Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 18, 2020)
Diana Penty, whose peers utilized the Coronavirus-triggered lockdown to tap into their painting, singing, dancing or even cooking skills, confesses that she was unable to do so. “I felt bad about it in the beginning, but it’s not a competition. There is so much to do in the house, especially when you don’t have outside help, and only so many hours in a day. So, there was no time for additional stuff,” the actress explains, adding that she isn’t following a workout routine either. “I have realised that to some extent, doing chores around the house is like exercising. I will resume workouts when everything opens.”Besides getting the house in order, cleaning, sorting out her cupboards and wardrobes, Diana is spending a lot of time with her mother and hopes that a situation like the pandemic never arises again. To help combat the health crisis, she has also been working closely with the Salaam Bombay Foundation to provide safety gear and hand sanitisers to the police. “This is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to them. They have been on the frontline of the pandemic since the beginning and ensured that the lockdown was successful,” she asserts, adding that she started out with the police station in her neighbourhood and took it to others across the city. “We have covered over 10 police stations in Mumbai that needed these two things on priority. We are going to support more and more police stations across the city.”
On the work front, Diana will next be seen in Dinesh Vijan’s Shiddat. “It’s a special film for me as it has brought Dinesh and me together again after my debut film, Cocktail. I loved the script, which was pleasantly surprising. As a fan of the romcom genre, I never expected to be so drawn to an intense love story. We are almost done filming and only a little patchwork remains,” she informs. She may not have unleashed the domestic goddess in her online during the lockdown, but the actress did read a couple of scripts.
When asked if she has zeroed in on her next project after Shiddat, the answer is “no”. Why so selective? “I think that is a misconception people have about me. I want to be a part of films that I would enjoy watching, and there needs to be an organic connection with the script. I follow my instincts at work and don’t overthink,” she reasons, adding that she would love to do an action film. “I would jump with joy if someone gave me an action film. It’s a difficult genre that requires a lot of prep and hard work, but I would love a full-on action project,” Diana admits.
The conversation takes her back to the action sequence she pulled off in the John Abraham-fronted Parmanu. “It made me realise that even a small scene requires a lot of homework. I learnt kick-boxing and a bit of martial arts for this one and after the prep, I could feel every single muscle in my body I didn’t even know existed,” the actress reminisces.
I can’t believe I’m actually a part of Cannes this year-Diana Penty
8:45 AM
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; May 19, 2019)
While Deepika Padukone has been a regular at the Cannes Film Festival, her Cocktail co-star Diana Penty makes her debut this year. The model-turned-actress will walk the red carpet today as the ambassador of an alcohol brand.
The Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran actress, who is a first-timer at Cannes, is understandably ‘super excited’. “I am also a little nervous,” she says adding that she has been following the prestigious event for a long time. “I can’t believe I’m actually a part of it this year! It is important to me as I’m representing India on an international platform,” she beams with pride.
Besides walking the red carpet, the leggy lass will also be a part of the discussion on ‘Women In Global Cinema’. Deeming it as a special opportunity, Diana says, “Women are the most powerful beings in the world and we have been making an impact since the inception of cinema. It’s a privilege for me to able to address the achievements that we’ve accomplished and how we strive to make the industry a better place to work each day,” she says.
With Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Kangana Ranaut and Dippy slaying the red carpet with their sartorial choices, we ask Diana what has she planned to wear to up the fashion game? “I have a few options for each look. All I can say is that my style will be something that one hasn’t seen me in before yet. It’ll speak about who I am as a person. The French Riviera is all about being chic and individualistic, so that’s what it will be,” explains the beauty, who has already grabbed attention with her first outfit, a dress with golden tassels.
The actress also followed a strict diet and workout regimen to be in the perfect shape. “From a special diet to numerous fittings, I’ve indulged in everything. There’s an entire team that sits together to combine various elements to give a final look. I’m mentally prepared to enjoy every moment and make the most of my first time there,” she signs off.
Diana Penty recounts her journey from being a model to accidental actress
10:03 PM
As told to Himesh Mankad (MUMBAI MIRROR; April 8, 2019)
In my final year of college, I signed up with a top agency as a part-time model. I was studying at Mumbai’s St. Xavier’s College at the time which is known for its meritorious students and is very particular about attendance. I was in two minds but eventually took up the offer because people around had been telling me that I’d be the perfect model. But I made it clear to the agency that academics were my priority and I’d only take up modelling assignment during holidays. For me it was just an opportunity to earn some pocket money.I worked with the agency for a year-and-a-half. My first job was for an Italian designer. I went on to do a couple of print shoots and ad campaigns which I quickly realised brought in far more than pocket money. I was the only earning member in my group and it felt great to be financially independent.
After graduation, I took up modelling as a full-time career because it was so fascinating. Initially, I was unnerved by the spotlight, but with time I became comfortable. My plans of going to Boston for further studies in Marketing, Communication and Advertising took a back seat but I was in Paris for a few months during the Fashion Week and walked the ramp for a number of designers. That trip was great exposure for me, as living in another country helped me evolve as a person. After Paris, it was on to New York for another Fashion Week. I also ended up doing a lot of shoots there.
I was happy being a model. It gave me the chance to travel around the world and make some good money. Along the way, I also did a television ad and then, when I was in Rome, I got a call from Saif Ali Khan and Dinesh Vijan’s production company. Once I returned to Mumbai, I went to their office. They were looking for a fresh face and having seen my pictures had me in mind for the role of Meera, a traditional Indian girl who moves to Mumbai after marriage only for her husband to disown her. They asked me to enact a scene and my lack of confidence during the audition worked for the character because Meera was a shy girl-next-door, the polar opposite of the free-spirited party girl, Veronica (played by Deepika Padukone).
I was called for another audition next day and an hour after that, they called me to say that I had bagged the role. Cocktail was a big banner film with Saif as the hero and though acting had never been on my mind, Homi (director Homi Adajania) and Dinesh boosted my confidence. I was enrolled for diction, acting and dance classes. They had faith in me and because of them I am an actor today.
During the shoot, I was nervous working with experienced and established actors. However, everyone was supportive and encouraging. I made mistakes and forgot my lines but the unit ensured that I remained calm. In fact, they all helped me with my lines and scenes, accepted me for who I was.
I’m bad at baking, but I love eating Christmas cakes-Diana Penty
8:15 AM
Kimberly Colaco (THE TIMES OF INDIA; December 15, 2018)
Model-turned-actress Diana Penty is like a dream on screen, but put her in the kitchen and she’s all nerves. “I’m very bad in the kitchen, but I’m very good at eating cakes. I don’t have the patience to bake them,” she laughed, while speaking to us on the sidelines at IFFI recently, as she elaborated on memories of her life in Goa.
“I feel like I am home when I come to Goa. I have an uncle who stays in the North, and every time I come here, I stay with him. I wish I could come more often, but the moment you know that you have easy access, you tend to delay it. It’s like I’ll go next month or the month after that. My mum and dad usually bring me to Goa for Christmas. It is either during Christmas, or Easter that I come here. We’re here almost every year. Though I didn’t make it last year, we will try to come this year,” said Diana, who was born into a Parsi and Goan Christian family.
Her favourite activity during this season is to go for midnight mass to Governor’s Palace. “It’s a cute, quaint place. We spend time with family for lunch. It’s also the most hectic time of the year, when we think we can relax, but something pops up. There are lunches or dinners to attend. It’s a week of going to people’s homes and having a good time. The house is always laden with Christmas delicacies and yummy food. I like to be at home doing nothing and spending time with my family and being with my two dogs. At the most, I would try out a new restaurant or go to the beach, just relaxing. In Goa I’m very chilled,” she said.
There is place in the industry for people who don’t come from a film background-Diana Penty
8:33 AM
Lasyapriya Sundaram (BOMBAY TIMES; August 19, 2018)
Model-turned-actress Diana Penty, who debuted in Cocktail (2012) as the girl next door, waited for the right role for almost two years, to avoid getting stereotyped. That’s when Happy Bhag Jayegi (2016) came her way. The film was a success at the box office, and now the second instalment in the franchise, Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi, is up for release. In a candid chat with BT, Diana talks about how even though the industry is perceived to be nepotistic, there is still place for outsiders, why she felt directionless after doing her first film and how she was body shamed while growing up. Excerpts…
You were the leading lady in Happy Bhag Jayegi. In the second instalment, Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi, Sonakshi Sinha is headlining the cast. Is your role that of a parallel lead?
I have no qualms in saying that this is Sonakshi Sinha’s film. My character, along with the others, helps in taking the story forward. When I read the script, I liked the fact that it revolved around the idea of mistaken identity.
You delivered a hit with the first film in the franchise, so why isn’t Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi revolving around your character?
The first part did well enough for the makers to consider making a second film and converting it into a franchise. That makes me feel proud and satisfied. This film is bigger and better. I would like to see it that way.
You’ve worked with Deepika Padukone in Cocktail and now, with Sonakshi Sinha. Deepika has risen to the top, despite being an outsider and Sonakshi, who comes from a film background, is also successful in her own right. Have you seen a difference between them that perhaps stayed with you?
I don’t think of it as a big deal when an actor’s child gets an opportunity easier than somebody else. What they do with that opportunity is what matters at the end of the day. Having said that, there is place in the industry for people who don’t come from a film background as well. Deepika, Anushka Sharma and Priyanka Chopra are successful actresses and they have made it on their own.
There was a four-year gap between the release of Cocktail and Happy Bhag Jayegi. What transpired in those four years?
Cocktail was the best thing that happened to me. It brought me into the world of films, which I didn’t know at that time I would enjoy a lot. Movies happened accidentally. Overall, I had a great time working in Cocktail and figured that this, perhaps, is something that I could do long term as well. My role in the film also led to me being slotted as an actor. After Cocktail, filmmakers couldn’t see me as anything else, but as the goody-two-shoes girl next door. I wanted to break out of that perception and that’s why, it took a while for me to do Happy Bhag Jayegi. Also, Bollywood was alien to me and I didn’t know how it worked. I was directionless and didn’t know what my next step should be. I wasn’t sure whose advice I should take into consideration because everybody was advising me! Yet, I didn’t have that one person who could mentor or guide me in Bollywood. I had to figure it out along the way. When I was offered Happy Bhag Jayegi, no one expected me to play the role of this loud, vivacious and no-holds-barred Punjabi girl. In fact, I didn’t see myself like that (laughs). I am very soft-spoken and for the film, I had to learn to talk loudly. It took a while for me to get into the skin of the character and I engaged in workshops to pull that off. Nonetheless, it was liberating.
Before Happy Bhag Jayegi (2016), director Mudassar Aziz’s film Dulha Mil Gaya (2010) wasn’t successful at the box office. Did you have any apprehensions about working with him because of that?
Everything in this industry is unpredictable and transient. That’s why you can’t judge somebody based on their success and failures. Everybody deserves a second chance. Sometimes, talent remains untapped. When Mudassar narrated the script to me, he seemed like a confident director. In fact, he told me not to watch his first film (laughs). The dialogues of Happy... were written by him and the film’s humour was in the writing. I have always gone with my gut and at that time, it felt right. Most of us associate comedy in Bollywood films with adult humour. This film broke away from that.
You started you career in showbiz as a model. Were you advised by people to join Bollywood because of your good looks?
Everybody told me that I should become a model because I was tall and skinny. But, it had the opposite effect on me, because being called skinny scarred me. I was a skinny girl, so people would come up to my mother and ask her if I was well-fed at home. It is so insensitive. You don’t go around telling somebody who is overweight that they are fat, likewise, being constantly commented upon for being skinny is also body shaming.
I genuinely don’t want any more long gaps between my films-Diana Penty
8:39 AM
Rinky Kumar (DNA; August 13, 2018)
Diana Penty managed to impress critics and audiences alike with her portrayal of a gregarious, fun-loving Punjabi kudi in Happy Bhag Jayegi (HBJ, 2016). Now, she is back in its sequel Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi (HPBJ), handing over the mantle to Sonakshi Sinha. After staying away from the arclights for almost four years following her debut film Cocktail, it seems the leggy beauty is making up for lost time with a spate of releases such as Lucknow Central (2017) and Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran, which opened in cinemas this May. In a freewheeling chat, the model-turned-actress tells us why being a part of HPBJ is like homecoming for her and how she is no longer nervous while facing the camera. Excerpts…
How does it feel to return as Happy?
It’s a proud feeling that part one did so well that it prompted the makers to consider a sequel. It’s always great to go back to the ‘Happy’ family because we had such a blast working on the first film. It was a total laugh riot. And of course, my association with producer Aanand L Rai and director Mudassar Aziz has been amazing. This outing, too, has almost all members of the old cast including new additions like Sonakshi and Jassie Gill, so it was fun working with them.
Were you apprehensive about passing on the baton to Sonakshi as you were the protagonist in the first part?
To be honest, when I heard the story I understood how our characters come together. It was essential to take the plot forward. And why not make the film bigger and happier? This time, there are two Happys, so it’s double trouble. It just adds to the script and the audience’s curiosity. I was integral to the first part, so I wouldn’t want to hold the makers back. I would want the second part to be even better. The earlier movie was about my character, while this one is Sonakshi’s story, which I help to take forward. Wherever Happy goes, trouble follows. So, in the sequel as well, I have caused some trouble and Sonakshi has to bear the brunt of it (smiles).
Within a year, you have had three releases. Have you changed your strategy or do you feel you need to make up for lost time?
My strategy was always the same, which was to do good films. It was just that initially, I didn’t know which route to take and what kind of subjects I should do. It took me a while to figure out what my next step should be. After Cocktail, people had automatically categorised me as the shy, quiet, girl-next-door because of the character, Mira, that I played in it. I wanted to do something different in my later films. That is why I thought I should wait till I find a good script. That’s when HBJ came about. I realised this was the perfect way to make people sit up and take notice of me.
Go on…
Along the way, I have learnt a lot about what I like to do and what I don’t. As I didn’t have any guidance or mentor, I was trying to figure out things on my own, which took a little longer than it should have. Now, that I’ve managed to do that, things have become easier. I don’t want to break the momentum. I genuinely don’t want any more long gaps between my films. Today, my focus is to try and do as many movies as I can. Also, for some reason, people have presumed that I don’t want to do commercial cinema, which is not true at all. All the movies that I have done to date are mainstream. In fact, Happy Bhag Jayegi (HBJ) was even more commercial than Cocktail as it was set in a small town.
So, what is your criteria while signing a film?
For me, it’s just the story that matters. It’s the heart and soul of every film. I’m happy to experiment with characters and genres. I want to do diverse kinds of cinema, which is what I have consciously tried to do along the way. In Parmanu, I had a slight action role, Lucknow Central was a drama, HBJ was an out-and-out comedy while Cocktail was a rom-com. I have tried to do something different each time because it’s more exciting that way.
Are you keen to explore any particular kind of genre?
I would love to do a thriller and explore the action zone more. It’s challenging and that’s what I like about it. I would also like to do another comedy because I have realised how much I enjoy it. And who doesn’t like to watch a light-hearted fun film at the end of a long day?
When you look back, how do you think you have grown as an actress?
Each film that I do, I take something away from it, which helps me grow as an actor. Now, I’m definitely more at ease in front of the camera. I remember in my first two films that wasn’t the case at all. Each time I faced the camera, I would get nervous. My approach towards acting, too, has changed a bit. It helps to work with diverse filmmakers because you get a different perspective as an actor. I have learnt something from all my directors. They have given me tips that have helped me carry a scene forward or enact a character better.
Right now, it’s a great time for cinema as a lot of off-beat subjects are being made. How do you perceive this scenario as an actress as well as a viewer?
Today, movies have become more relevant in terms of the subjects that are being addressed. The audience is beginning to accept this new kind of cinema. They are not going for typical movies that they were used to watching earlier. It gives us so much more to do as actors. We get to play diverse characters and explore more opportunities.
Are you keen to explore the digital space?
The web is truly the way forward. A couple of years from now, everyone will be going down that route. It seems to be quite the trend in the West already, but here, we are just beginning to discover it. And there is such high-quality work on it. So, I would love to act in a web series.
I felt safe working with John Abraham-Diana Penty
8:47 AM
Diana Penty on the Parmanu experience and returning to a ‘Happy’ place
Rohit Bhatnagar (MUMBAI MIRROR; August 9, 2018)
Diana Penty followed up her debut in Cocktail (2012) with another girl-next-door character in the romcom Happy Bhaag Jayegi (2016). After a break with gritty films like Parmanu and Lucknow Central, the actress returns to her roots with the sequel, Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi.
“I have butterflies in my stomach, which happens before any film but working on this one, just like its theme, has been a happy experience,” says the 32-year-old actress.
Sonakshi Sinha shares the titular moniker with her this time, though, and her screen time is considerably reduced. “There are two Happy's and the full cast of the first instalment. It’s not just double trouble but trouble multiplied by infinity. The film is a laugh riot and similar to the first film in spirit. But this time, it is Sonakshi’s story and all of us help take it forward,” Diana clarifies, reluctant to divulge more about her character.
What was it like trying to break the mould with a film like the John
Abraham starrer Parmanu, you wonder, and Diana says, “I enjoyed the
whole process of working on this compelling story. Many, including me,
weren’t aware of the incident until I read the script so it was an
interesting and informative process. I’m glad that it was well-received.
It feels good when people acknowledge your work and say nice things
about you. I wanted to break my girl-next-door image and I hope I did it
with Parmanu.”
Buzz is, Kareena Kapoor will be seen in the third part of the Happy franchise. Diana turns tight-lipped. “I wouldn’t know, I’ve read this but Muddassar Aziz (director) or Aanand (producer Aanand L Rai) sir would be the right ones to comment on the matter,” she says.
Meanwhile, she is keen to work with John and his production house again. “I got to work with him not only as a co-actor but as a producer. He is good at what he does, and he knows his job as a producer. I really respect him. There is no shortcut when it comes to John. He doesn’t allow mediocrity. Also, he is sharp about the content he wants to back. I felt safe working with him,” she explains.
And what about her love life? Ask her about the the diamond merchant she is reportedly dating, and Diana is quick on the uptake. “Yes, he is a jeweller, but I don’t want to comment on it,” is her parting shot.
It feels amazing to walk through the corridors of St Xavier’s again-Diana Penty
8:07 AM
The actress returned to her alma mater, St. Xavier’s College, after 12 years and relived the memories of the ‘most beautiful days’ of her life
Pallabi Purkayastha (BOMBAY TIMES; July 25, 2018)
A BMM graduate, Diana Penty had not been able to revisit her alma mater, St. Xavier’s, ever since she entered showbiz and she always loathed that fact. However, earlier this week, her wish was fulfilled, when she was invited as the chief guest for a press meet that unveils the line-up of the college’s annual festival — Malhar 2018. Talking about her experiences as a student, Diana said that her alma mater had made a major contribution in shaping up her life.
In a one-on-one with BT, the actress reminisced the good old days, and revealed that her first (and natural) instinct at the entrance of the college was to reach out for her gate pass. “It was overwhelming, you know. I was suddenly transported to 12 years ago and the unfortunate part is that I haven’t been able to come back here in all these years. It is just an amazing feeling to walk through the corridors again, walking through that gate again,” said Diana Penty, getting nostalgic during her visit to her college, St. Xavier’s, after 12 years. “I was about to reach into my bag and look for my pass, because back in the day, they used to be very strict about it. Even if you are a regular student and the security guard recognises you, he would still say, ‘Pass chahiye…’ So, for a moment today, I felt, ‘Oh! God, I don’t have my pass’ and then I realised that I don’t need one. I am happy that I am finally here, because it’s something that I have wanted to do for a long time and I thank the committee for inviting me,” shared a visibly emotional Diana.
The actress, who graduated in 2006, cherishes her friends from her college days and likes to keep them close. “The bonds of friendship that I forged in my college days are still going strong. I made some really good friends in the five years that I was here and those days, we used meet every day. We would spend the whole day together and again see one another the next day, but it was never enough. We used to go out together on weekends. For me, those are the most special memories of my life. Working on projects together, hanging out in the canteen and bunking classes (laughs!)...” she recalled.
About her favourite hangouts, she said, “We used to spend a lot of time at Rang Bhavan, or at the bus stop right outside the college. For some reason, the bus stop used to be our meeting ground. The whole group would get together and chill there before or after college. It was the most ridiculous thing to do (laughs!). The Metro Cinema is close by, so, whenever we used to bunk classes, we would watch movies. There was also the Kayani bakery, which was known for its ‘chai’. In fact, there were so many ‘dhaba’ kind of places that offered good food and we used to spend a lot of time there. Most of these places do not exist anymore, but we spent a lot of time there.”
Twelve years have passed by, but when asked if anything has changed in the college, Diana was quick to reply in the negative. “I didn’t notice any change (on the college premises), to be honest. Of course, I haven’t explored the other side yet and not been to the canteen — we used to call it the Woods — but the entrance and the corridor look the same. They are very well maintained now; those days, they probably needed a paint job but now, it looks really amazing,” concluded the actress.
Diana strikes a pose on the winding staircase, which is considered to be an architectural delight with its carvings
I am proud to belong to a city as selfless as Mumbai-Diana Penty
8:23 AM
The actress unwinds at the Gateway Of India and professes her love for the Maximum City in the rains
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; July 9, 2018)
For Bollywood’s lissome beauty Diana Penty, Mumbai is all about the heritage city she grew up in. “I’ve always lived in Town, so most of my hangout spots are in this side of the city,” she says, elaborating, “From the bylanes of Byculla to the colonial architecture and heritage of the Fort area, from the artsy Kalaghoda to the iconic Taj Mahal hotel overlooking the Gateway Of India — that’s the city I've come to love.”
Dressed in a black top and ochre-yellow culottes, the actress looked like she was all ready to enjoy the rains at the Gateway of India with her red umbrella when we met her. She shares, “My mum’s office was at the Taj, so I’ve been frequenting the place from childhood. I have the most happy memories here. The best chocolate cake in the world, according to me, is the Dutch truffle cake from one of the cake shops here.”
Digging out more nuggets from her childhood memories, she tells us how she enjoyed walking her dog at the green race course and eating a bhutta on Worli Sea Face. She says, “I loved the bhutta with tons of masala and limbu. One of the most cherished memories are Irani cafes like Byculla Restaurant & Bakery and Regal Restaurant & Bakery situated right down the road, they are institutions in their own right. I grew up on the chai, bun maska, mutton pattice, khaari biscuits, kheema pao, bhurji pao and mawa cakes here. I remember at that time we used to get five rupees as pocket money and after the school got over, we would earnestly wait for our chance to eat chips at Boman’s (Irani) wafer shop, which literally defined my childhood. Located on the same road where I live, it was my pit stop after school or tuitions. Either Boman, his mum or aunt were behind the counter, and on days when I was really lucky, I got a free packet of wafers!”
Diana also recalls some great time spent at the Xavier’s College. She says, “I remember having spent some wonderful time at the college canteen and the nearby Kayani bakery. The chequered flooring at the bakery was so lovely. I also remember my days at Rang Bhavan, there were a couple of restaurants around there, which continue to be my favourites.”
The actress also recalls the time she spent her evening at Jumbo Point, a name given to a location from where you can see an aeroplane taking off or landing from a close range. She says, “I didn’t know it was called Jumbo Point until fairly recently, but I remember spending evenings there watching the planes land. I come from a family of aviation enthusiasts, so you can imagine!”
Diana sums up the essence of the ‘Maximum City’ and calls it a ‘selfless city’. She says, “It’s probably one of the most selfless cities in the world. It’s bursting at the seams, but it still welcomes thousands of people each day with open arms. It is, after all, the city of dreams. No matter where you come from or what your background or religion is, it has place for everyone here — a place you can call home. Having said that, it is also not an easy city to live in — what with the traffic, the pollution, the exploding population and the ever-increasing prices. But it’s the city I was born in, grew up in and choose to live in today. A city, that has accepted me for who I am, helped me grow, made me independent and given me everything. A city I’m proud to belong to. I love you, Mumbai.”
I made a list of women playing action leads in other movies and observed their body language-Diana Penty
8:10 AM
Hiren Kotwani (BOMBAY TIMES; May 22, 2018)
Six years ago, Diana Penty won over audiences with her convincing portrayal of the shy and meek Meera in the Saif Ali Khan and Deepika Padukone-starrer Cocktail. But much to everyone’s surprise, she didn’t do films back to back. Speculations were rife was that she was tying the knot with her diamond businessman beau Harsh Sagar. Finally, in 2016, she had her second release, Happy Bhag Jayegi (HBJ). Last year, she was seen in Lucknow Central. As the lissome lass gears up for her fourth cinema outing, Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran, we catch up with her for a chat. Excerpts…
Many newcomers would make the most of a hit debut. But you’ve had just three releases in five years...
There are multiple reasons. After Cocktail, I took my time trying to find my next project. I was unsure of which films I wanted to do. Also, I didn’t know how my life was going to change after my debut film. There were a few things that took me time to get used to. After that, I started reading scripts and came across HBJ. I thought it would be a nice challenge to break away from my earlier character of Meera. I wondered to myself if I could play Happy in HBJ who was the complete opposite of my real-life persona. She was a loud, moohfat girl. I wasn’t sure if I could pull it off. I saw it as a challenge. But director Mudassar Aziz had faith in me. It took me a while to find that second film which was perfect for me. After that, I signed a few more movies. Now, I’ve got my momentum (smiles).
Were you also being choosy?
I don’t wish to be too choosy. I want to do cinema that interests me, not something that I’m not passionate about. Why do it and waste other people’s time? Some people say a few films are good for visibility, but it’s better to do work that you genuinely believe in and are passionate enough to want to be a part of. I took that route which I’m 100 per cent sure of. I guess it’s a personal choice.
What appealed to you about Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran?
The script is tight and pacy. It engrossed me so much that I was turning pages at a great speed. I thought that the thriller is so good at the script level, it would get only better on screen. I play a strong female character in the male-dominated film. I was getting an opportunity to tell people a chapter that changed our history. I’m a proud Indian and after reading the script, I knew I had to be a part of it.
Is your character based on any real-life person?
If you ask director Abhishek Sharma, how much is fact and how much is fiction, he’d tell you that he’s stuck to facts as much possible. However, most characters are fictitious due to security and other reasons. Telling anyone anything at this point would be giving away the spoilers.
What kind of prep did you have to do?
I have some action scenes in the movie. It took a while to prepare for them as I had to train in kickboxing. As for the other aspects, Abhishek had done so much research that he knew the subject inside out. The nuclear tests were classified and had to be conducted when the CIA was not watching. The common knowledge was that the tests took place and sanctions were imposed on India. I got to know a lot more during the making of the film. When I asked Abhishek for a reference point, he suggested I should watch movies like Zero Dark Thirty, as it was not only a great reference, but also had the woman playing a central character. I made a list of women playing action leads in other movies and observed their body language.
How was it working with John as an actor and a producer?
This was the first time I actually met him. He’s great to work with as an actor but I also realised that he’s one of the best out there as a producer, too. He knows exactly what he wants and will give his 200 per cent to everything. If he takes up a movie, he’ll make sure nothing passes till it’s absolutely right. As an actor, you feel you’re in safe hands. John has his credibility about being particular about content and you’re assured that it will be a quality product. He really knows what he is doing as a producer.
You have Happy Phir Bhaag Jayegi lined up next with Sonakshi Sinha. Why would you do a two-heroine sequel after you’ve been the leading lady of HBJ?
At the end of the day, it all boils down to the story. The plot demanded it. It’s bigger and better. It makes me feel proud that I’m passing the baton to Sonakshi. Mudassar has outdone himself. Very few family films are romcoms; Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi is a family comedy for the entire audience. I couldn’t stop laughing during the shoot.
What kind of films do you see yourself doing in the coming years? Do you have a career strategy?
For me, it’s all about the story. I feel that is the heart and soul of a film. Performance is important, yes; but you have to set the story in place for the performance to come into the picture. You can’t give the audience a mediocre film. The story has to be riveting for viewers to go and watch it in theatres.
When you weren’t doing films after Cocktail, reports were rife that you were getting married to your beau — diamond businessman, Harsh Sagar.
I never disappeared. People presumed and I never bothered to clarify as I didn’t pay attention to such news. When my second film released, they realised they were wrong. There is no point justifying because people will say whatever they want to.
But there were also rumours that you had broken up till you were spotted again with Harsh earlier this year.
I don’t see why we need to discuss that. I’m an extremely private person and so is he. I feel it’s not right to drag someone into this. What we do in our spare time is of no consequence. What I do in my workspace is what matters.
There is a lot of talent out there, and I know that I’m dispensable-Diana Penty
8:01 AM
Actor discusses challenges of surviving in B-Town and why she’s excited about her next
Sonil Dedhia (MID-DAY; May 21, 2018)
Though Diana Penty has spent over five years in B-Town, she has starred in just three films. Excited about her fourth release, Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran, the actor agrees that surviving in the industry isn’t a cakewalk. “There is a lot of talent out there, and I know that I’m dispensable. I’d be lying if I say it was a cakewalk to get work. It’s been a struggle. There were a few months at a stretch when I didn’t have work. Such situations are stressful; they often result in self-doubt,” says Penty, adding that she didn’t have work because she was selective.
She wants to do diverse roles, without compromising on the quality of films she takes on. “I want to do movies that challenge me as an actor and keep me excited. It’s difficult to say no to people, but those who understand will come back to me if they think I am good enough,” says Penty, who stars alongside John Abraham in the film, which narrates the story of India’s first nuclear test in 1998. “I studied about the Pokhran test in school, but that’s about it. After signing the film, I learnt a lot about it from director Abhishek Sharma. While shooting, I understood how the tests made our country a nuclear power.”
Penty is also looking forward to her brief role in the sequel to her 2016 film, Happy Bhag Jayegi, which stars Sonakshi Sinha. “Ali Fazal and I have a smallish part in the film. It’s like passing the baton to Sonakshi.”
I don’t know why people assume I’m not interested in commercial cinema-Diana Penty
7:57 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (March 31, 2018)
Diana Penty, last seen in Lucknow Central (2017), has two releases this year — Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran and Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi. The actress says that while she has had just three releases over the past six years, it’s not because she is extremely choosy about her roles.
She says, “It’s more an unfortunate case of delayed releases. I just want to act — commercial, mainstream, niche or art — my choices are not defined by labels. I don’t know why people assume that I’m not interested in commercial cinema, which is strange because I began my career with a commercial film (Cocktail). My second outing (Happy Bhag Jayegi), was more mainstream than my debut. For me, the story is everything. I’m open to different kinds of roles, characters and genres.”
The actress, however, accepts that her rare offscreen appearances have something to do with her shy nature. “It’s partly true that I am not seen that often in public. Well, I’m just socially awkward, especially around people I’m not familiar with. But once you get to know me, I’m quite a chatterbox.”
Talk to Diana about the many more ‘assumptions’ doing the rounds about her — that she is not Indian, to begin with — and she laughs it off. “These are all myths. I just don’t understand where these stories originate from. My surname (Penty) is a reflection of my Parsi heritage. I have roots in Jabalpur and that’s as Indian as it can get.”
I have a sense of pride for the armed forces from the time I was a child because of my grandfather-Diana Penty
8:17 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; January 7, 2018)
A few months ago, pictures of Diana Penty wearing an army uniform for her upcoming film Parmanu were doing the rounds. Interestingly, the actress maintains that she’s not exactly playing an army officer in the film.
Speaking on how wearing the uniform during the shoot instilled a sense of pride in her, Diana says, “For me, Parmanu was an awakening of sorts. The film is about a covert mission. It’s sometimes unbelievable that we get to recreate a part of history and live an incident that made history and changed the way our country was perceived. Wearing a uniform gives one a different feeling of pride and I respect those who wear them every day and put their lives at risk for us.”
Diana’s grandfather was in the army. Bring that up and she says, “I had a sense of pride for the armed forces from the time I was a child because of my grandfather. He taught me to salute. He told me that every time I see army personnel, I should salute as a mark of respect. I spent a lot of my school vacations in Devlali because my grandparents lived in the cantonment there. So now, when I got the chance to wear the uniform, although I’m not really playing an army officer, it felt great; almost like art’s imitating life because women are now being trained to be inducted into combat roles in the army.”
Over the last few years, the kind of roles being written for leading ladies has been through a sea-change. The characters have more gravitas and are almost as important as the man leading the cast. Says Diana, “It’s about time this happened. It was all about the male star for so long, and often, women played secondary parts without much substance. I think that was not fair and how long can that have gone on for? Thankfully, I am in this industry at a time when women are increasingly becoming the central characters of their films and are holding fort. Increasingly, stories are being written for actresses to have a chance to play someone who can be celebrated.”
I wrote to Santa every year hoping that my mom would post the letter to the North Pole-Diana Penty
8:00 AM
Rachana Dubey (BOMBAY TIMES; December 24, 2017)
Brought up in the bylanes of the scenic, old-world Byculla, Diana Penty loves the hustle and bustle of the crowded, colourful and busy bazaars of Bandra. That is one of the reasons we took her to this lively neighbourhood to shop for some Christmas decorations, followed by a visit to Mount Mary Church. On Christmas Eve, the actress takes BT down memory lane. Excerpts:
When you walk past markets and churches decked up for Christmas, what thoughts run through your mind?
I have memories of the time when I was younger and when I believed in Santa Claus, which was the best part of Christmas. Back then, I wrote to Santa every year, hoping that my mom would post the letter with a stamp to the North Pole! Magically, almost every wish of mine was fulfilled. I’d get my gifts under the tree and I used to wonder how Santa figured these things for so many people. Essentially, Christmas has always been about spending time with family. We had one big lunch filled with banter, warmth, laughter and great food. Doing up the tree with my mom was another fun exercise. We also made sweets like kalkals together. It was a three-four day run-up. As a child, I also remember attending Midnight Mass with my mom and dad (even though he wasn’t a Christian) every year.
Do you make time for such celebrations now?
I haven’t done most of these things in a long time and it’s sad, but I don’t remember if I have ever worked on Christmas. Since making sweets with my mother is one of the fondest memories I have, there’s a part of me that misses all this because that’s the spirit of the festival. The countdown to the big day made it all so exciting. It’s all kind of lost today because we are all over the place. For some years now, during Christmas and also Easter, we travel to Goa.
So, is the party at home this time around?
Yeah, maybe. We’ll do something small and intimate. Nothing hectic; just some good food, barbeque, and music with friends and family.
How much have celebrations at home changed after you grew up?
After getting gifts from Santa, I’ve now become one for many people (laughs). I actually preferred it the other way around. But it is fun being a Santa to someone. Everything changes with time. As a kid, there’s so much innocence attached to the celebrations. When you grow up, life makes you so busy that you completely lose the excitement around a festival. The build-up to it is often lost and it just comes and goes by…
Have you ever played Secret Santa?
I have played Secret Santa. It’s just that I have not done it with my team or my friends in a very long time. I see everyone around me talking about it.
If you could ask Santa for three wishes, what would they be?
Now that I am all grown up and done asking for toys and bicycles, I’ll ask Santa for a mature gift, like good work in the year ahead. Interestingly, I remember I signed Lucknow Central on Christmas last year. They got the contract home. I met Nikkhil Advani just four days before that. The whole year since then went by shooting for films back to back. I just want more of that and good health, peace and prosperity for everyone I love.
This year actually turned out to be an exceptionally busy one for you professionally, after very long.
I shot for three films. I believe in the magical energies that surround us all the time. It’s significant in a way that I signed a film on the day of the festival. I am happy that a year like this happened. And now, I don’t want to lose this momentum. It’s come after a long wait. I mean whenever there are films offered, one always has an ounce of doubt but when Parmanu, Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi and Lucknow Central came to me, I didn’t have any doubt. Everything felt right about these films.
You’ve been a part of the industry for a few years now, but we haven’t seen you attending any Bollywood bashes during the festive season...
That’s a personality thing. I am quiet and reserved. I like doing things I am comfortable with. It’s not like I am not socially present, but maybe, I’ll do it more often in 2018. Come to think of it, I was very new to the industry a few years ago. As an outsider, I slowly got to know people. Now, I am comfortable and I have friends. I feel more like a part of the industry. Now, it comes from within to go out and socialise with people I know, or have worked with and haven’t met in a while. In the past, I was very skeptical about how I would go about doing this.
Would you invite your Bollywood friends to your house, maybe for an extended Christmas celebration?
I hope I have made that many friends. I mean, it would be terrible if I haven’t made any. And I hope they come if I extend an invitation. I always think, ‘What if I am the only one at my party?’ What if people tell me, ‘You live in SoBo, it’s too far’? But jokes aside, next year, I want to invite people over because I love hosting at home. It’s great to have friends over and I prefer that to a party at some nightspot. Dressing up and all the jazz around it is too much effort. I prefer chilling at home, calling friends, sitting in pyjamas and talking.
If you could choose one person from the industry as your Santa Claus, who would that be?
I would choose Aanand L Rai as my Santa as he’s gentle-faced, generous and cool. I can imagine calling him and asking, ‘Hey, Aanand ‘Santa’ Rai, can I please have a film?’ He’s the first person who comes to my mind, as he has Santa-like qualities. Trust me, besides a film, I can even ask for some really good food. He takes his food seriously and we bond over it. If you work on his set, he’ll organise three lunches, breakfasts and dinners. He’s thorough with his research when we are shooting outdoors. He’ll know the food specialities of all the places around and everything either comes to the set or to the room. His sets are the happiest places because everyone is well-fed.
I don't want to be part of films that are easily forgotten-Diana Penty
7:58 AM
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; September 13, 2017)
Named after the late
Princess Diana, she is an intriguing concoction of her varied on-screen
characters.She embodies the quiet charm of Meera (Cocktail),
occasionally breaks into a vivacious smile like Happy (Happy Bhag
Jayegi) and exudes the quiet confidence and clarity of thought like
Gayatri, from her forthcoming film Lucknow Central, costarring Farhan
Akhtar. In a freewheeling chat with BT, 'That girl in that movie'
(that's how people referred to her post Cocktail) tells how a chance
career in films helped her alter her reserved behaviour and shy
demeanour. Excerpts from an interview with Diana Penty ...
You were a model before entering films.What led to the career shift?
I had never planned to become an actor. While I was modelling in New York, I got a call from Homi Adajania and Dinesh Vijan (director and producer, respectively, of Cocktail), who were planning to launch a new face. Though I was happy doing what I was doing at that time, I decided to explore the opportunity. I auditioned not knowing anything about acting, but I think that they liked the innocence and nervousness that I exuded because that worked for the character.
People often wonder if you are a foreigner...
I get to hear that a lot. I grew up in South Mumbai and I am a total homebody, so I was not seen around. I guess that's the reason many believed that I wasn't Indian or can't speak Hindi. Actually, my Hindi is not as bad as people think it is; it's just that I am nervous, so I avoid speaking the language. I even ask for my script in Devanagari because it helps improve pronunciation.
After Cocktail in 2012, you took four years for your next release (Happy Bhag Jayegi). This year, you have two outings - Lucknow Central and Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran. That makes it four films in five years. You definitely don't seem to be in a hurry like most of your contemporaries...
Well, I have two films this year and that sounds cooler than saying that I did four films in five years (laughs). I wasn't in a hurry back then because I was launched in a certain way, and the bar was already set high. So, I wanted to continue doing substantial roles, irrespective of their length. Yes, it took me a while to find my second film, but it was a conscious decision to wait for a role that's different from what I did in Cocktail. What's the point of playing Meera in another film with a different name? Happy was totally unlike Meera - she was loud, spontaneous and impulsive. And now, there's Gayatri (in Lucknow Central), who is measured, balanced, sensible and real.
Was it a conscious decision to choose films that didn't slot you as the 'new hot girl' in the business?
I don't want to be part of films that are easily forgotten. I won't sign a film thinking, 'Oh my God! I don't have a film so I've got to sign one real quickly'. Films are not a part-time job. They take months to make and require long-time commitment; so, you can't do a half-hearted job.
You are extremely reserved by nature and such people are often perceived as snooty and high-handed. Does that happen to you?
If you are quiet, you are perceived as super-unfriendly. It happens all the time and it's a challenge because you cannot force people to believe otherwise. You cannot hold a placard that says, 'I am a nice person'. However, once people get to know the real me, they admit that they misjudged me. And then, I wonder, 'What took you so long to figure that out?'
You don't even have a Twitter bio. At a time when most stars have made their presence felt on social media, were you forced to alter your personality a bit to stay in the game?
Well, I used to have a bio. It read, 'That girl in that movie' because that's what people called me after Cocktail. But once I signed other movies, I took it off. I was more reserved earlier. Now, I am more myself as I have grown personally and professionally, but it still takes me a couple of meetings to break the ice. Also, it's true that I had to alter my personality a bit. Initially, I was not comfortable with social media; I couldn't get used to the idea of being so open with people I have never met. Besides, I am very measured. I think 500 times before I do or say something. Even when I am taking a picture, I think, 'I can't post a random picture'. It should mean something. I am particular and anal about things being right. I guess I think too much.
Given your nature, how difficult was it for you to break into this competitive industry and make a place for yourself?
My personality definitely comes in the way. Nobody has told me that directly, but it's a fact that with this job, people expect you to be more social and outgoing. At the same time, I also feel that it's not impossible to do it the other way. At the end of the day, your work should speak for itself. Making people notice you because of your work holds more weight than them noticing you for reasons that are secondary or frivolous.
Was it intimidating to work with someone like Farhan Akhtar in Lucknow Central? As an artiste, what's your takeaway from this experience?
Yes, it was intimidating to be working with such a talented cast, but I always liked how understated Farhan is as an actor. He comes well prepared on the set. That was quite refreshing, since most actors are not like that. They learn their lines on the set.
You condemned Mika Singh's (rather tasteless) comments on your surname at an event last year. (He had said, “She is Diana Panty, I am Mika Kachcha“)...
I have no issues about people making fun of me as long as it's in good humour. I am not the kind to take offense, but there is a certain place and time for everything. A line needs to be drawn somewhere. I respect others and I'll never be ungraceful, so I expect the same from others. To each his own but at that time, I felt that it was uncalled for and the manner in which he did it wasn't appropriate. The beauty industry breeds on self doubt. Commercials make you believe that you have to look a certain way to be called beautiful.
As a model and actress, what's your take on this obsession for 'perfection'?
It takes an hour or two of make-up and styling for us to look this way. A lot of factors contribute to how we look and there's photoshop over and above that. Every young girl, who aspires to look like a model or an actress should know that we don't wake up looking like this. Most girls are unaware of this and it's unfair on them. Also, I won't promote something blindly. Being a public figure comes with a certain responsibility. Even if you are influencing only five people, you have to be responsible.
You have been in a steady relationship for a couple of years now. Does it help to have a boyfriend who is not from the industry?
My boyfriend is not from the film industry and technically, even I am not; so, we are on the same page and he keeps me grounded. I go to work, do my thing and go back home. Our conversation doesn't predominantly revolve around films. You want to disconnect sometimes and he, my mom and a bunch of close friends help me do that.
You were a model before entering films.What led to the career shift?
I had never planned to become an actor. While I was modelling in New York, I got a call from Homi Adajania and Dinesh Vijan (director and producer, respectively, of Cocktail), who were planning to launch a new face. Though I was happy doing what I was doing at that time, I decided to explore the opportunity. I auditioned not knowing anything about acting, but I think that they liked the innocence and nervousness that I exuded because that worked for the character.
People often wonder if you are a foreigner...
I get to hear that a lot. I grew up in South Mumbai and I am a total homebody, so I was not seen around. I guess that's the reason many believed that I wasn't Indian or can't speak Hindi. Actually, my Hindi is not as bad as people think it is; it's just that I am nervous, so I avoid speaking the language. I even ask for my script in Devanagari because it helps improve pronunciation.
After Cocktail in 2012, you took four years for your next release (Happy Bhag Jayegi). This year, you have two outings - Lucknow Central and Parmanu: The Story Of Pokhran. That makes it four films in five years. You definitely don't seem to be in a hurry like most of your contemporaries...
Well, I have two films this year and that sounds cooler than saying that I did four films in five years (laughs). I wasn't in a hurry back then because I was launched in a certain way, and the bar was already set high. So, I wanted to continue doing substantial roles, irrespective of their length. Yes, it took me a while to find my second film, but it was a conscious decision to wait for a role that's different from what I did in Cocktail. What's the point of playing Meera in another film with a different name? Happy was totally unlike Meera - she was loud, spontaneous and impulsive. And now, there's Gayatri (in Lucknow Central), who is measured, balanced, sensible and real.
Was it a conscious decision to choose films that didn't slot you as the 'new hot girl' in the business?
I don't want to be part of films that are easily forgotten. I won't sign a film thinking, 'Oh my God! I don't have a film so I've got to sign one real quickly'. Films are not a part-time job. They take months to make and require long-time commitment; so, you can't do a half-hearted job.
You are extremely reserved by nature and such people are often perceived as snooty and high-handed. Does that happen to you?
If you are quiet, you are perceived as super-unfriendly. It happens all the time and it's a challenge because you cannot force people to believe otherwise. You cannot hold a placard that says, 'I am a nice person'. However, once people get to know the real me, they admit that they misjudged me. And then, I wonder, 'What took you so long to figure that out?'
You don't even have a Twitter bio. At a time when most stars have made their presence felt on social media, were you forced to alter your personality a bit to stay in the game?
Well, I used to have a bio. It read, 'That girl in that movie' because that's what people called me after Cocktail. But once I signed other movies, I took it off. I was more reserved earlier. Now, I am more myself as I have grown personally and professionally, but it still takes me a couple of meetings to break the ice. Also, it's true that I had to alter my personality a bit. Initially, I was not comfortable with social media; I couldn't get used to the idea of being so open with people I have never met. Besides, I am very measured. I think 500 times before I do or say something. Even when I am taking a picture, I think, 'I can't post a random picture'. It should mean something. I am particular and anal about things being right. I guess I think too much.
Given your nature, how difficult was it for you to break into this competitive industry and make a place for yourself?
My personality definitely comes in the way. Nobody has told me that directly, but it's a fact that with this job, people expect you to be more social and outgoing. At the same time, I also feel that it's not impossible to do it the other way. At the end of the day, your work should speak for itself. Making people notice you because of your work holds more weight than them noticing you for reasons that are secondary or frivolous.
Was it intimidating to work with someone like Farhan Akhtar in Lucknow Central? As an artiste, what's your takeaway from this experience?
Yes, it was intimidating to be working with such a talented cast, but I always liked how understated Farhan is as an actor. He comes well prepared on the set. That was quite refreshing, since most actors are not like that. They learn their lines on the set.
You condemned Mika Singh's (rather tasteless) comments on your surname at an event last year. (He had said, “She is Diana Panty, I am Mika Kachcha“)...
I have no issues about people making fun of me as long as it's in good humour. I am not the kind to take offense, but there is a certain place and time for everything. A line needs to be drawn somewhere. I respect others and I'll never be ungraceful, so I expect the same from others. To each his own but at that time, I felt that it was uncalled for and the manner in which he did it wasn't appropriate. The beauty industry breeds on self doubt. Commercials make you believe that you have to look a certain way to be called beautiful.
As a model and actress, what's your take on this obsession for 'perfection'?
It takes an hour or two of make-up and styling for us to look this way. A lot of factors contribute to how we look and there's photoshop over and above that. Every young girl, who aspires to look like a model or an actress should know that we don't wake up looking like this. Most girls are unaware of this and it's unfair on them. Also, I won't promote something blindly. Being a public figure comes with a certain responsibility. Even if you are influencing only five people, you have to be responsible.
You have been in a steady relationship for a couple of years now. Does it help to have a boyfriend who is not from the industry?
My boyfriend is not from the film industry and technically, even I am not; so, we are on the same page and he keeps me grounded. I go to work, do my thing and go back home. Our conversation doesn't predominantly revolve around films. You want to disconnect sometimes and he, my mom and a bunch of close friends help me do that.
I don't want to end up playing Meera again-Diana Penty
8:25 AM
Diana Penty on not chasing numbers in show town and her two upcoming films
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; September 12, 2017)
Diana Penty’s debut as Meera Sahni, the girl-next-door with the qualities of a home-maker in Homi Adajania’s 2012 film Cocktail was well received. But inexplicably, the 31-year-old actress vanished into the blue, only to pop up last August in Aanand L Rai’s Happy Bhag Jayegi. A year later, she has two films releasing within months of each other — the Farhan Akhtar-starrer, Lucknow Central, and John Abraham’s Parmanu. “It’s funny when people ask me if I was on a break. Even between shooting the two, I had two-three months of prep. From reading a script to the release, the journey spans at least a year, if not more,” she argues. “I didn’t want to end up playing Meera again and again, with a different name but in a same film set-up. I don’t chase numbers, my choices are quality driven. I didn’t want to just sign stuff, it’s not my style.”
Buzz is, she’ll make a cameo in the Happy sequel? “You’ll have to ask that to Aanand sir,” she laughs evasively, but is happy to talk about Parmanu in which she plays an army officer. The action-drama is based on the nuclear bomb test explosions conducted by the Indian army at the Pokhran Test Range in 1998. “I underwent kickboxing and weight training workshops to get my stance and body movements right,” she recalls, grateful to have a jovial producer co-star like John, who ensured atmosphere on the sets was chilled out and comfortable.
In contrast, getting into the shoes of social worker Gayatri Kashyap and being in the male-dominated world of convicts and jail authorities in Lucknow Central, was a mental challenge, involving research. “NGO workers have a lot of dedication and passion that I had to bring to my performance. It’s a misconception that it’s voluntary work so it doesn’t require any qualifications. Social workers like Gayatri are well-versed in sociology, psychology and criminal behaviour,” she says.
The role was first offered to Kriti Sanon, who walked out after the prep. Producer Nikkhil Advani then called Diana, who immediately gave her nod to the film after a reading with director Ranjit Tiwari. “I didn’t think about who was offered the film before me, I’m grateful I landed a part I felt strongly about. It worked out well for everybody,” she says.
Quiz her on her co-star and she says, “During the shoot, I noticed just how real and subtle Farhan is. He underplayed his character just right. It was an interesting learning experience to watch him and other talented actors like Ronit Roy, Gippy Grewal, Imanulhaq and Deepak Dobriyal, who were receptive to each other.”
Four years on, she’s not a part of B-town’s inner circle. Will we see her at more bashes this year? “I take my time to open up. Unfortunately, quiet people are often mistaken as being unfriendly. That’s unfair!” she protests. “I don’t make too many friends but I can count on my inner circle, besides my family and boyfriend.” Buzz is, Diana is in a relationship with Mumbai-based diamond merchant, Harsh Sagar. Question her about her personal life and she typically replies with a dazzling smile and a long silence. That’s your cue to move along.
Diana Penty hops into a toto rickshaw for Lucknow sightseeing
7:54 AM
Shilpi Sampad (MID-DAY; April 3, 2017)
For Mumbai girl Diana Penty, the idea of shooting in a smaller city steeped in history seemed exciting. The actress had been there once a long time ago, just for a day though. And when she revisited the Uttar Pradesh capital on a weeklong schedule for Farhan Akhtar-starrer Lucknow Central, she knew she had to do all things touristy, albeit for a few hours.
On a day when she was relatively free, Diana hopped onto a toto rickshaw to slake her wanderlust. “The people are so warm and there is so much history to the city. I did a bit of sightseeing. It was quite an experience,” says Diana, adding that there were no crazy fan encounters. “I am pretty good at blending in,” she adds.
Given that she is also a foodie, the actress did an exhaustive research on what and where to eat in Lucknow.
“I even asked for recommendations on Twitter and the responses were very helpful. The chaat and kebabs were to die for, not to mention the biryani.”
By the end of the day, Diana could feel her purse getting lighter and shopping bags heavier. She splurged heavily on the famous Lucknowi chikankari fare. “Now that summer is here, I wanted to buy a few pastel pieces for my wardrobe. I ended up buying a lot as gifts for friends and family as well,” she adds.
Diana plays an NGO worker in Lucknow Central. Farhan will be seen as a prisoner with musical aptitude.
I got to cuddle a Koala bear in Australia; sweetest animals in the world-Diana Penty
8:04 AM
Sanyukta Iyer (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 12, 2016)
The world's sixth largest
country and among the most-remote countries, Australia has become a
popular tourist destination, especially among backpackers and budget
travellers. Even though Canberra is the capital, Sydney - best known for
its famed opera house, harbour and bridge -a long with Melbourne and
Queensland are the three most populated cities, drawing thousands of
visitors every year. Diana Penty who was in Kangaroo country for a week
describes the visit as one of the best travel experiences. Over to the
actress:
Bohemian paradise
With its sunny beaches, seafood spread, bohemian vibes and adventure
opportunities, Sydney, Melbourne and Queensland's Gold Coast are perfect
getaways for solo flyers, honeymooners and families. I first visited
Australia seven years ago but this time the experience was very
different.
The cities are slow and quiet during the week, but weekend nights are happening. People there don't like dressing up, it's a hippy culture, with everyone at Bondi beach in shorts, casual dresses and flip-flops. The beach is lined with cafes and bars, and is a great party place. The Australian crew filming with us were friendly and fun. The locals too were easy-going, welcoming and informal.
Up the Sydney bridge
Even though I'd seen the Sydney Harbour earlier, I hadn't climbed the
1332 steps to the bridge. This time I went up this architectural wonder
with its steel arch. I had a guide with me, explaining the history of
the bridge. It was like learning and exploring at the same time. I didn't
think I'd be able to complete the climb but it was great for my quads. A
brisk exercise during
my vacation and I was rewarded with a breathtaking view. Later,
we took a cruise on a yacht, followed by my first seaplane ride. Looking
down on the Opera House from every possible angle all evening made it
an unforgettable experience.
Meal to remember
Named after and inspired by an eclectic neighbourhood surrounding an old gasworks in Athens, Gazi, located in the heart of Melbourne, is run by celebrity chef, restaurateur and judge of Masterchef Australia for the last ten seasons, George Calombaris. It's notable for its ink-splattered walls, Zodiac-themed cocktail menus and industrial steel benches. It offers messy, streetstyle Greek dishes. I'd recommend the seafood, crab salad, feta fries and prawns. I love food and this one topped my list of ten meals across the world.
From sunrise to sunset
I love nature, particularly dramatic cliffs and surreal mountains. When I'm on the beach, I prefer to stay on the sand than get into the water. One day, we drove 45 minutes away from the surfer's beach to take a hot air balloon sunrise ride at 4000 ft. It was a wonderfully calming experience. Being in the air reminded me of the time I went snorkelling - the silence under water, just like the silence in the sky, was so soothing. I hate noise! I also took a one-and-a-half hour drive along Melbourne's coast to the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks and eroded cliffs off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park. On one side of the winding road is the endless ocean with limestone peaks emerging from the blue water and on the other side, tall mountains.
We took a helicopter ride along the coast as well. It was spectacular! On my last day, I took an unforgettable trip to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. It's a heritage site and a zoological garden where I got to cuddle a Koala bear. They're the sweetest of animals in the world.
Bohemian paradise
With its sunny beaches, seafood spread, bohemian vibes and adventure
opportunities, Sydney, Melbourne and Queensland's Gold Coast are perfect
getaways for solo flyers, honeymooners and families. I first visited
Australia seven years ago but this time the experience was very
different.The cities are slow and quiet during the week, but weekend nights are happening. People there don't like dressing up, it's a hippy culture, with everyone at Bondi beach in shorts, casual dresses and flip-flops. The beach is lined with cafes and bars, and is a great party place. The Australian crew filming with us were friendly and fun. The locals too were easy-going, welcoming and informal.
Up the Sydney bridge
Even though I'd seen the Sydney Harbour earlier, I hadn't climbed the
1332 steps to the bridge. This time I went up this architectural wonder
with its steel arch. I had a guide with me, explaining the history of
the bridge. It was like learning and exploring at the same time. I didn't
think I'd be able to complete the climb but it was great for my quads. A
brisk exercise during
my vacation and I was rewarded with a breathtaking view. Later,
we took a cruise on a yacht, followed by my first seaplane ride. Looking
down on the Opera House from every possible angle all evening made it
an unforgettable experience.
Meal to remember
Named after and inspired by an eclectic neighbourhood surrounding an old gasworks in Athens, Gazi, located in the heart of Melbourne, is run by celebrity chef, restaurateur and judge of Masterchef Australia for the last ten seasons, George Calombaris. It's notable for its ink-splattered walls, Zodiac-themed cocktail menus and industrial steel benches. It offers messy, streetstyle Greek dishes. I'd recommend the seafood, crab salad, feta fries and prawns. I love food and this one topped my list of ten meals across the world.
From sunrise to sunset
I love nature, particularly dramatic cliffs and surreal mountains. When I'm on the beach, I prefer to stay on the sand than get into the water. One day, we drove 45 minutes away from the surfer's beach to take a hot air balloon sunrise ride at 4000 ft. It was a wonderfully calming experience. Being in the air reminded me of the time I went snorkelling - the silence under water, just like the silence in the sky, was so soothing. I hate noise! I also took a one-and-a-half hour drive along Melbourne's coast to the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks and eroded cliffs off the shore of the Port Campbell National Park. On one side of the winding road is the endless ocean with limestone peaks emerging from the blue water and on the other side, tall mountains.
We took a helicopter ride along the coast as well. It was spectacular! On my last day, I took an unforgettable trip to the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. It's a heritage site and a zoological garden where I got to cuddle a Koala bear. They're the sweetest of animals in the world.
People think I’m bitchy-Diana Penty
7:53 AM
Diana Penty on being the unconventional Bollywood debutante
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; August 20, 2016)
When Cocktail released in 2012, debutante Diana Penty
was immediately accepted. But she had other plans. She nixed all offers.
Any other actress would have taken advantage of the situation and
consolidated her position. Diana, however, did no film for the next four
years. Now, she is back on screen with Happy Bhaag Jayegi in a role
that’s diametrically opposite to Cocktail’s Meera. Here she talks about
the long break, her next film and what she is really like. Read on...
Why the long break after Cocktail?
There wasn’t any plan or agenda on my mind. Even Cocktail wasn’t planned. My life, in terms of the work I have done so far, wasn’t planned. I was doing advertising and mass media in college. I was studious and wanted to do my Master’s when modelling just happened. I got signed on by an agency. I was one of the few people in college, who was earning while studying. I could pay for my own expenses and I was financially independent. Then the film came... unplanned. I was modelling in the US and then I came, auditioned and the next day, I was on.
You must’ve had a lot of offers...
Mine was a very unconventional journey for a debutante. I guess I am the unconventional Bollywood heroine because I waited it out. It wasn’t like I completely disappeared from the scene. I was doing modelling, endorsing and making appearances. At the same time, I was meeting people and reading scripts. I just had no hurry or pressure like other newcomers to sign projects. Then, three years later, I started shooting for Happy Bhaag Jayegi.
Didn’t you like anything offered to you at that time?
Nothing really excited me. For me, I decide things instantly. If a script I read, connects with me and I have a gut feeling that I should do it, I will do it. Happy Bhaag Jayegi was that film. Unfortunately, nothing else that was offered to me were anything substantial enough for me to say yes to. My gut wasn’t saying yes to anything and I don’t like forcing myself to do anything because it will just be for the heck of it. I cannot do a film for the wrong reasons or because people want me to do a film.
Do you regret losing out on that much time?
No. It’s not such a bad thing. It’s possibly a very bad business plan because I didn’t take the advantage of my debut film.
Most debutants’ second film come after a gap of two years anyway...
I haven’t ever kept a tab on what’s going on and who’s coming up with a film after how many months. But now that you said it, it’s fine. Mine came after four years. Big deal!
At least now, you won’t wait that long anymore. Right?
No, I think I would like it to be faster this time round. I will do a film only if I want to do one. But if it takes a little while, it’s fine. I’m trying to work on it quicker for sure. I have met more people this time. You get the ball rolling and it kind of makes it quicker. But I am very particular about enjoying and being sure of what I’m doing. Otherwise, I know I would not be giving my 100 percent to the film.
Happy Bhag Jayegi looks like a quirky film.
I haven’t heard of anything or even seen anyone attempting a film like this in Bollywood. So that appealed to me. I wanted to do this because it is so new to me. I was like ‘Wow, this is a crazy chick who runs away from her wedding and ends up in an unknown place where she doesn’t know anybody’. It’s a situational comedy of errors and I wanted to do this. Happy is totally the other extreme of Meera and that’s also another reason I took this up.
Who are you more like in real — Meera or Happy?
I have some characteristics of both. But I’m probably closer to Meera as a person. I’m more measured and practical. I think 500 times before I say or do anything. I am quite reserved in my own way. But I do have some characteristics of Happy as well. I am quite stubborn, independent and I don’t take things lying down. You just can’t get me to change my mind (smiles). I live my life on my own terms, but I am not a loudmouth. I can’t be a drama queen.
One public perception about you that you don’t agree with?
People generally feel I am measured and boring. When I meet someone for the first time, I don’t say much and it takes me some time to gel with anyone. It comes across as somebody who is unfriendly. People think I’m bitchy because of that. But it’s not that. I am just more reserved. I have friends who now tell me that they thought I had an attitude problem when they met me for the first time. But then again, now everything’s so different because they know me. So that’s a misconception because it’s just a personality type. I’m an introvert.
Any friends from the industry?
I take really long to make friends and I guess I haven’t been here long enough to have friends in the industry. But I have good working relationships with whoever I have worked with so far. I take time to open up to people and get comfortable with them. I can’t make friends just like that, especially at this stage of life.
Are you doing Atithi In London?
I was offered the film, but I am not doing it.
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