No inhibitions playing a lesbian, says Rashmi Agdekar

• How did you enter the world of acting?

I have always loved acting right from my school days and started giving auditions eight years back when I was doing my graduation. I am a trained Kathak dancer and my love for dancing also played a role in my decision to make a career in acting.

• How did your training in dance help you in acting?

Dancing has helped me a lot. I feel whatever good I have achieved in my acting career is because of my training in dance.

• What was your parents’ reaction?

I think they helped me in many ways; more than I expected. They have been a great support. They were sceptical but wanted me to succeed. I am blessed to have my parents by my side.

• While choosing between acting and dancing, was there any conflict in your mind?

I would say there was a bit of dilemma. Because at the age of 12, I was a bit confused and the dance form was little tough for me. But later, I discovered that Kathak, which involves expressions and the art of story-telling, laid the foundation for acting.

• Any one film you watched in your growing years which inspired you to join the industry?

I have trained in Kathak for 12 years and when I watched Madhubala in Mughal E Azam I was fascinated. I knew I wanted to do this on screen.

• Playing a lesbian character Chandni in Dev DD; did you have any inhibitions?

No, I had no inhibitions playing a lesbian on screen. I love diversity and back in 2017 when the role was offered to me, I wanted to know how the role was written. Chandni has been written in a very sensitive way.

• As an artist do you feel OTT content should be censored?

The whole idea of OTT platform started because the makers were having some kind of limitations on screen. And if censorship will create an obstacle then why have it!

• Who do you look up to for inspiration?

Two actors whom I adore are Tabu and Radhika Apte. And also Taapsee Pannu. She has been amazing.

• As an actor what is on your wish-list?

The first barrier which I want to break is to move from my sweet, girl next door image to a completely opposite personality.

• What is your mantra to de-stress?

I love to listen to music. Yoga also relaxes me and then sleep plays an important part to de-stress me.