Jhataleka Malhotra was crowned as the first runner-up in Femina Miss India in 2014. She then went on to represent India at the acclaimed Miss International (2014) pageant held in Japan. She bagged the Miss Internet beauty award and her national costume went on to become the third runner up.
Jhataleka is now all set to maker her grand debut in Bollywood with the film, ‘Tuesdays and Fridays’ produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and T-Series. The modern-day rom-com will feature Jhataleka opposite Poonam Dhillon and Ashok Th akeria’s son Anmol Thakeria. The film is expected to release in cinemas on 19 February. Jhatalekha Malhotra spoke exclusively to The Daily Guardian and shared her thoughts, and experience on debuting in Bollywood.
Q. How excited are you for making a Bollywood debut with ‘Tuesdays and Fridays’?
A: I am extremely excited and looking forward to the film releasing. Finally, my dreams are turning into reality and I can’t wait for people to watch all the love and hard work that we’ve invested in this film.
Q. How did you bag the role?
A: Well, getting the part was a journey from auditions to meetings and script reading etc until things got sealed.
Q. How relatable your character is with you in real life?
A: Sia and Jhataleka are different but still alike. I think Jhataleka connects with Sia on an emotional level and that is where real and reel meet.
Q. You have been a part of beauty pageants, did you ever dream of being an actress?
A: I always wanted to be an actress. This dream has been the centre of my life and I’ve been pretty clear about it to myself since the beginning. Beauty pageant happened for this very same dream.
Q. Tell us about your experience and bond with co-star Anmol Dhillon?
A: Our bond has been of friendship which helped us bring ourselves into this space of comfort while shooting. I think that has been helpful to both our characters in the film. Having known each other made the communication easier which is key.