Yashma - All-round entertainer

TALENTED actress Yashma Gill has shown off her impressive range in TV drama serials that include Ki Jaana Main Kaun, Kab Mere Kehlaoge, Piya Naam Ka Diya and Ab Dekh Khuda Kya Karta Hai.

The multi-talented beauty is also a popular YouTube star and regularly uploads entertaining videos online.

Eastern Eye caught up with Yashma during lockdown for a quick catch up to talk about her journey, inspirations and the best advice she ever got.

How are you handling the lockdown?

I’m handling lockdown by staying positive, spending more time with my family and friends, and trying to have more insight generally about myself; like who I am, what I like and dislike. I’m also just working on my mental health.

How did you feel watching yourself on TV for the first time?

I used to be a VJ, so I didn’t come on TV as an actress first, but I don’t remember the feeling. I just started to call my friends and family to put on the channel and watch me, as I was so excited.

Which role has given you the greatest joy?

Every role I’ve played, I only said yes to it because I felt that it had something to give me back in return. If you ask about a favourite, then it’s Noorul-Saba from Ab Dekh Khuda Kya Karta Hai.

Which role was the most challenging for you?

Noor-ul-Saba only because I had to play a drunk girl in that. I don’t drink, so I don’t know how to act or pretend to be drunk. She was very vulnerable, under pressure and killed herself. It had a lot of shades, so was a very challenging character.

You have been prolific on TV, how have you kept up with such a demanding work schedule?

I’m passionate about my work, so I don’t get tired of it, but actually if I don’t have work then I feel tired and exhausted. Not being productive is what actually exhausts me.

What is the master plan after lockdown is over?

I’ll hit the gym as I have become a couch potato in this lockdown. I will stop taking everything for granted that I used to before lockdown happened.

What have you enjoyed watching on TV?

I’m watching (Turkish drama) Ertugrul Ghazi.

What would be your dream role?

I really want to do a role that has something do with the military. I would love to play a character that puts a uniform on me; for example, a soldier or air force pilot because I always wanted to be part of the military, but it didn’t happen, so now I just want to act the part.

What inspires you?

I look for inspiration in everyone because everyone has an inspiring quality. I try to pick positive things from people I hang out with.

The best advice you got...

The best advice I got from my parents is, ‘what you sow is what you reap, so karma exists. You get what you give to anyone, so make sure to do the best for everyone and you will get the best in return.’

Why do you love being an actor?

In my daily life, I’m an emotional and complicated person, and it gives me a platform to be anything without any limitations. I get to mimic and imitate all those I wanted to understand the physiology of as a person.