‘My journey defines me’

ALTHOUGH talented TV star Ridheema Tiwari has been in the industry almost 10 years, she wasn’t sure acting was for her.

The small screen star admits to most of her initial roles being trial and error. She worked her way up to become a bankable TV actor and then made the leap to cinema with Begum Jaan. Now, the star of successful serials like Ghulaam and Divya Drishti is selectively looking for new challenges.

Eastern Eye caught up with Ridheema Tiwari to find out more about her journey and future plans.

How do you look back on your journey?

I look back with deep gratitude and don’t want to change anything about this journey because it defines who I am today. I will continue to do better, bigger projects in life with love for camera and with God’s grace. I empty my cup of life, unlearn the unnecessary, relearn the right things and stay grounded with life as my teacher. Today, Ridheema is a new better version in her true essence because of rejections, successful projects, fabulous co-actors, talented directors, visionary producers, wonderful critics and undying love from fans.

Which role has given you the greatest joy?

My character Maldawali (Ghulaam) gave me great joy, where I experimented with my looks, hair and makeup. I also danced to almost 25 numbers in eight months. Also, my role of Amba from Begum Jaan. I was awestruck on set with some of my most favourite people – Vidya Balan, Ila Arunji, Rajit Kapoor, Ashish Vidhyarthi and Gauahar Khan. My Bollywood debut still feels like a dream.

What was the most challenging project for you?

Supernatural TV drama Divya Drishti with all the adventure, harness activities and physically challenging outdoor shoot sequences. The format was challenging, but fun.

Tell us about your current projects?

It’s too early to talk about any of them.

What is your plan?

Doing films and web series is a priority, with some of my favourite directors like Anurag Kashyap, Rajkumar Hirani, Neeraj Pandey, Shoojit Sircar, Vishal Bharadwaj, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Rohit Shetty and Nitesh Tiwari. Also, I look forward to being involved in social programmes related to women’s empowerment, and mental and physical fitness.

What’s your dream role?

Waheeda Rehmanji in Guide, Tabu in Chandni Bar, Sridevi in Sadma or Alia (Bhatt) in Highway.

If you could star opposite any leading man who would it be?

From Hollywood George Clooney as the intensity and depth of the roles he portrays are so fascinating. From Bollywood Ranveer Singh for his amazing energy on screen. It would be great to experience magnitude, electricity, gloss, swag and grounding in one go.

What do you enjoy on TV?

I enjoy watching films and web series that have substance, drama, life lessons and phenomenal acting. I binge-watched two web series simultaneously, Jamtara and YOU.

What inspires you?

I am passionate about music, singing, reading, travelling, gardening and meeting real life heroes. I am truly a people person and derive inspiration from those around me. Life and real-life success stories inspire me.