'I was always attracted to the glamour industry'

Charlotte Claire, winner of the Miss Gladrags 2013 contest, has bagged Arjun Sarja's tri-lingual film, Jai Hind 2. It will be made in Tamil, Telugu and Kannada.

The 23-year-old has appeared in several television commercials, and walked the ramp for brands such as Madame and Gant.

Here, she talks to Rajul Hegde about the new phase in her career.

How did acting happen?

After Gladrags, I had sent out my portfolio to a few agencies. I got a call from Arjun Sarja (actor/director) to audition for Jai Hind 2. He signed me for the role in the third meeting.

I was kicked and charged up the moment I heard the script. For a newcomer, it is a strong role. I will have to portray a character that experiences different emotions.

Have you seen any of Arjun's films?

Yes. I have watched Jai Hind and other films in bits and parts. He is such a talented actor. His Tamil films have been successful at the box office. So I consider this a good break for me.

When did you come to know that you wanted to act?

I was always attracted to the glamour industry and acting has been my passion. My elder sister Sophia Handa inspired me. She was also a model and won the Gladrags Mrs India contest.

What is your character like in the film?

I play a young Britain-based girl. The film is based on the current education system and its flaws.

Shooting has already started in Mysore (Karnataka). I will be joining the crew only next month, in Hyderabad, Chennai and for the major part of the shooting in London.

Since you are not familiar with the three languages, how difficult is it to work on the diction?

It's not easy. Right now, I am learning the Tamil lines on my own with English translation. I am going to put in some really hard work. I don't want somebody else to dub for me.

I am keen to learn all the three languages. Working in three different languages will help me to gain exposure in the South and be part of these industries.

Have you taken any acting classes?

Yes. Training polishes your talent so I took personal coaching in acting. I didn't have time to go to an acting school because I was busy working on my fitness for Gladrags.

I was 70 kilos then. With a proper diet and gym, I reduced to 56 kg.

Actually, I stopped studying after class 12 because I wanted to concentrate on Gladrags. Right now, my studies are on hold but some day I would like to complete my graduation.

So how did you lose weight?

I hit the gym regularly. Exercise and cardio on alternate days for an hour. First thing in the morning, I drink warm water. I have an egg whites for breakfast with one slice of brown bread, and a glass of aloe vera juice.

For lunch I have dal, rotis, sabzi and salads. For dinner, grilled chicken or fish. I have plenty of water and minimum eight hours of good sleep. I avoid junk food and carbs for dinner.

Is acting in Hindi films your next step?

Yes, if I get an opportunity.

Is there any actor in Bollywood that you wish to work with?

I am a huge fan of Salman Khan. It will be a dream come true to share even a bit of screen space with him.

I make it a point to watch the first day, first show, of all his movies. My favourite movie of his is Maine Pyaar Kiya.