Dhruv Verma will be playing the lead role in the first Indo-Polish film, No Means No. The young actor talks to us about the film & more

When did you decide that you wanted to become an actor?

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Acting was always my passion. I played the role of Simba from Lion King at the age of six and since then the passion just grew. So, I cannot really say when I decided, but perhaps it’s more apt to say that my heart was always inclined towards acting.

How was the experience of sharing the screen space with Polish actors?

The experience was wonderful. The Polish actors of the cast were extremely talented and hard working. They were very supportive of one another.

How do you manage your personal and professional life?

I believe that an actor’s professional life and personal life are somewhat interconnected, unlike other professions where you can make a clear distinction. I guess as the saying goes you just have to love what you do and everything else just falls into place.

What was it like to shoot at locations below freezing point?

We shot in the winter, and on some days the temperature was as low as -32degrees celsius. It was definitely a challenge to perform in such a temperature when your limbs go numb, and it’s hard to even stand. I remember once that after a day of shooting in the snow, my head was frozen and I had to stand in front of the fire.

How does the film highlight the subject of women empowerment?

This film in essence brings the inner power which a woman has and how because of the way society is, she is forced to repress that strength and project a “frail” and “fragile” image. But there comes a time when this power can burst out like a caged lion, when a woman feels her integrity threatened.

What would you like to tell the audience about Polish culture and cinema?

I think No Means No will bust many misconceptions about Poland. Audience will be able to see the sheer beauty of the country and the humility as well as elegance of the people.

How was your horse-riding experience?

I’m proud to say that I never fell off my horse.

How do you feel about nepotism in Bollywood?

The industry is not fair or unfair to anyone. Hard work is what pays off eventually, no matter where you come from or whom you know.

Who’s your favourite hero in the industry?

My favourite action hero in Bollywood is Sanjay Dutt.

Are there things you want to do other than acting?

I think acting is the one profession where you get to do everything. One day you can be a doctor performing a complicated neurological procedure and the next day a palaeontologist being chased by a T-Rex. So no, there’s nothing else that I want to do.