South focus: Actor Nikhila Sankar says ‘not interested in onscreen chumma chati, want performance oriented roles’

Actor Nikhila Sankar says that she wants to play performance-oriented characters on the screen but is not open to ‘chumma chati’ (kissing). The star, best known for her work in Suzhal Season 2, also opens up about dealing with negativity and making a name for herself without a godfather. 

Edited excerpts from the interview:

How did your tryst with acting begin?

I never thought that I would become an actor. I, in fact, was more into music. I had learnt Carnatic music while growing up. A friend asked me to act in a short film. I then gave auditions. Following this, they referred me to a YouTube channel. 

Suzhal 2 star Nikhila Sankar. | Credit: Nikhila Sankar

My parents were concerned about me pursuing a career in acting. I asked them for one year to make an impact. Luckily, I got good projects and that’s that. 

How did Suzhal Season 2 happen?

People contacted me via Instagram randomly regarding the same. I, then, got a call from the Suzhal team. They called me for an audition and made me enact a scene.  Later, I got a call about being selected. Once selected, they made me practice how to do stunts. 

Do you find any difference between acting in films and in OTT productions?

There is not much of a difference between acting in an OTT production and a film. However, there is one thing I have learnt in this journey/. I was initially reacting to situations on screen as Nikhila. Later, I learnt that I was supposed to channel the character and react as they would. 

You don’t have a godfather in the industry.

Generally speaking,the presence of  a godfather makes things easy. However, I went with the flow. So, my experience has been somewhere in the middle. It’s not been too easy and it has not been too tough. That said, eventually talent speaks. 

How do you deal with negative feedback and trolling?

I think one should look at the positive side of things. I generally avoid negative comments unless there is something genuine being written or said. 

Is it tougher for dusky-skinned actresses to make a name for themselves in the industry?

I think it is the other way around. People welcome dusky skin. My complexion was toned down in all the films that I have done so far. Lover was the only exception. 

Do you have any dream roles?

I want to do performance oriented roles. Maybe something like Gangubai Kathiawadi.I would also want to play a lawyer or a cop. I, however, am not open to intimacy. Chumma Chati nahi karni