Himalayan News Service

Kathmandu:

In public, she’s nearly incognito, very down-to-earth; if spotted, gracious and forthcoming. Niruta Singh is attending a wedding reception but when asked if she would talk to the press, she laughs and says, “I am never left alone.” In between all the feasting, a television camera takes her aside to interview her and she takes it all in her stride.

“No, I don’t mind all the attention really. I try to look at it from their point of view also and I know that I would react the same way they would,” she explains, walking away. To her, the status she holds as one of the leading actresses in Kollywood has become life and no, she says thoughtfully, she doesn’t really look at things that way. People bombard her with all sorts of questions but she confidently bats them back with a smile, a flutter of her eyelashes and ambiguous answers.

“Throughout my career, something I’ve gained that I really cherish is the love from my fans,” says the actress. “Money doesn’t matter, money can never compare to it at all.” From being launched into limelight in the movie ‘Dakshina’ to gaining stardom in ‘Darpan Chhaya’, Niruta has matured as an actress and an individual. Her latest movie set for release ‘Dui Kinar’ has already gained much ground for its unconventional approach and handling of subject. “I’ve never done a movie like this one; it’s amazing. The story is, I think, much better.”

‘Dui Kinar’ is directed by Tulsi Ghimire, who is also the director of ‘Dakshina’ and ‘Darpan Chhaya’. ‘Dui Kinar’ was shot in Pokhara. Based on the story of a boatman, it revolves around the heroine, which is portrayed by Niruta. “My role is very strong. It was difficult doing it in the beginning but with Tulsi dai, I knew it would all be alright. He takes the time to explain things thoroughly and makes sure that you know the character. So, in the end, it is really no problem.”.

‘Dui Kinar’ was screened at a private show a few days ago. Most of the audience confessed that they shed a few tears as the movie was touching. “I cry every time I watch it,” says Niruta, laughing. “I have watched it so many times. I went to watch it again right after a tryingly long shoot of another movie. I thought I would sleep through it because I was so tired but I was wide-awake.”

The movie includes Vhupen Chand. “Though he is a new-comer, I must say he has done a wonderful job,” continues Niruta, “and so has the rest of the cast even the child actor Siddhanta Ghimire.” This reigning queen of Kollywood, who was awarded Best Actress for her role in ‘Lahana’, is at the moment working on ‘Ram Laxman’ and a Pakistani collaboration ‘Jaan Lewa’.