Actresses today go beyond glam, says Esha Gupta

Esha Gupta had a successful year after Rustom churned money at the box office. This time, she will be seen in a prominent role in the upcoming Commando 2. In a chat, Esha talks about her film, and item numbers, and how Bollywood is finally opening up to women-orientated roles.

Will we see you doing action scenes in Commando 2?
I don’t have action scenes in the film but I can say that I am important in the film. Vipul Shah is a dear friend and when he narrated the film, I was blown away. It’s always exciting to do something different. Every heroine wants a typical heroine role. But I wanted to do something more.
 
How volatile has filmmaking become over the years, especially on the topic of intolerance?
If there is anything said against my nation, I will stand against it. But I think people are becoming too intolerant. But However, a lot of films are also working because people are becoming open-minded. People want to watch good cinema.
 
How competitive are you as an actress?
I am competitive because I have been an athlete all my life. People do say that this industry has become a rat race. In Hollywood, there are so many actresses who are doing their own thing. In India, the problem is the moment you look hot, they don’t want to see you in any other way.
 
Are you open to do item numbers in Bollywood?
I am, but an item song doesn’t mean an item girl. An item song means that the actor or actress is not a part of the film. It’s not right to call an actor an item. I am open to item songs. But I am not a dancer per se. I learnt dancing, and that’s why I have taken up a lot of shows. I am getting offers and I can proudly say that I am a good dancer.

Are actresses now being considered for prominent roles and not just glam ones?
Yes! It’s a welcome change. I feel like there are no barriers at all. I loved the Phillauri trailer for instance. I want to see something different rather than your typical films. Actresses are not there just to add a glam quotient — they are beyond that.