EXCLUSIVE: “I wasn’t scared of Ashutosh Gowariker,” says ‘Everest’ girl Shamata Anchan

Always passionate about studies, participating in Miss India South changed the life of Shamata Anchan. Currently seen as Anjali – the girl who wants to climb the Everest in Star Plus’s latest venture ‘Everest’ spoke to Pinkvilla.com recently. The model-turned-actor reveals how this journey started for her. Read on:

How did you get into modelling?

My parents are from Mangalore but I am born and brought up in Mumbai. I used to hear a lot about Mithibai College and my dream came true when I got admission there. After graduating in Commerce, I did my Diploma in AD and PR from Wellington University. When I was small I often used to see Aishwarya Rai (when she was young) come to my building to take tuition. I often used to spot actors. That never made me star-struck. Once I was approached by a random guy who asked me to get a portfolio done. I didn't agree because earlier I had faced many fake photographers. But the same guy turned out to be a family friend. Still I wasn't interested. It was during summer holidays when I used to work in call center to earn pocket money, I got my portfolio done.
I lost my dad when I was in my final year. I didn’t know if I wanted to continue working and just by chance I tried my luck in Miss India South 2012 and I won that. And that’s how modelling started for me.

When did you think of getting in to acting?

I had a very low period in my life. After my modelling assignments, I started to get movie offers from South. And suddenly I got Dengue, my toe fractured and all these took a toll on my health. I didn't want to risk my health and I took a big break.

How did Everest happen?

I got a call from the casting directors. They had like an ad of mine. I had gone for screen test. And they were looking for an athlete physique. In school I took part in many extra-curricular activities and was also engaged with sports. I guess, that helped.

How was your interaction with Ashutosh Gowariker?

Personally it was great to be associated with him. I met him before the selection and he put me at ease. He explained to me very calmly how to go about my character. I thought I would be scared but after talking to him, I wasn't.

Anjali in Everest is an athlete. How did you train yourself?

More than training, I fear to wear heels now. Because the show requires me to wear running shoes and now I feel like I’ll hurt my feet if I wear heels. I do gymming and all, so training part wasn't that hard.

How was your outdoor shooting experience for Everest?

Staying away from family for four months was the toughest and hardest things I have done in my life. Shooting in 6 degrees was also tough. But it was experience of a lifetime. We faced extreme snow storms and delivering lines in such conditions was very difficult. Reaching Dokriani was one helluva of an experience. There was no road and it took us four days to reach that place. We had our base camp at Nehru Institute of Mountaineering and had shot in Everest, New Zealand and Uttarkashi. It was fun time.

Did you have acting in mind always?

No. Acting happened by chance. I was inclined in studies.

Most of the time, models choose modelling to enter films. What’s your take on this?

For people who don’t come from a filmy background, then take modelling as a platform to get noticed. There’s no wrong in that. Even I come from a modelling background. I got noticed. It depends on the person, if he or she wants to enter into films.

Short takes:

If not an actor then:

I would have taken up a 9-5 banking job that would pay me good.

Beauty regime:

I had a good skin, but lately due to shooting schedule, my skin has become oily. I use acne soap bar and drink lots of water. Water is the best beauty treatment you can get. It shows.

Diet:

I take lots of proteins and no carbs.

Fashion icon:

Deepika Padukone. She is classy and elegant.

Best designer:

If I name one, others would get angry. I actually do lot of online shopping.

Hobbies:

I love to eat. But because of my current project, gorging on food is not allowed. I also love dancing. I have learnt Bharatnatyam for seven years. Off and on, I've learnt Jive, Salsa and Jazz. Now I want to learn Kathak.

Role to die for:

Kangana’s role in the film ‘Queen

Model friends:

Sucheta Sharma and Alicia Raut