THE DIVA WITH AN ATTITUDE

Boss 2 was released amidst much hype and anticipation. How would you say the audience has received it so far?

Boss 2 is doing great at the box office, and honestly we did not think that it would be this successful. We really worked hard, and I am glad that fans have acknowledged that effort. I knew somewhere deep inside that even after so much had transpired before the release of the movie, all that would matter is how good it really is in terms of quality and entertainment. 

Many have said that Nusraat Faria isn't your typical Bangladeshi actress. Do you think that hinders you in any way?

I would say that I'm different when it comes to my attitude. When I turn up to a film set, I don't expect to be treated differently. I try to be as friendly and down to earth as I can, because I want my co-workers to be comfortable with me. I am true to myself, and that is why I'd consider myself to be more relatable as an actress and as a person. When it comes to hindrance, I haven't really come across any problems as of yet. Everyone that I've worked with has been very good to me, so I've been blessed.

What about your reception? Wouldn't you accept that the audience is a little hesitant to accept a completely different kind of personality?

I am well aware of that. Change is inevitable, and we need to accept it sooner or later. Throughout my career, I've tried to give something different to the industry and I would say that I've succeeded so far. Whatever I am today is due to the sheer amount of work that I've put in; I've gone through all the tests and hurdles to get inside this industry. When I was working as an anchor, I brought about many changes and the audience had to buy it. I made them buy it. Now it's time to change this film industry for the better. 

Are you a different person on screen than you are in real life?

I have to be. When I'm with friends and family, I am fun-loving and jolly Faria. The moment I step foot in front of the camera, my persona changes completely and I become 'Nusraat Faria'. However, I always stay true to myself. Whenever you see me off-screen, I will be the same to you whether you're my friend, make-up guy, interviewer or fan. If the audience wanted to see something 'fake', they would go watch my movies, right?

Who are your inspirations in cinema? Do you have any favorite co-stars?

That would have to be Priyanka Chopra. I absolutely adore her. When it comes to co-stars, I loved working with Shubhasree (Shubhasree Ganguly). She is confident, comfortable and a very powerful actress and we have built a great rapport with each other. I had an amazing time working with Jeet as well. He is such a great person to be around! He has helped me vastly in improving as an actress.

Speaking of which, are you seeing someone right now?

(Laughs) I see where you're getting at! Well, I am, as a matter of fact. All I'll say is; he is a good soul. 

After your rise to prominence, many young and upcoming actresses have been quoted saying that they want to be an actress like you. Did you always want to be a role model?

I am absolutely elated to know that. I'll share an incident with you. Aziz bhai's (Abdul Aziz) elder daughter once came up to me with a bunch of her friends and they told me that only because of me they had gone to watch Ashuqui. The fact that girls from English medium schools are now investing in this part of the media is highly encouraging. It is really easy to do mainstream work that is 'guaranteed' success, but it is difficult to bring an entirely new demographic to theatres. I am truly touched to have been able to be a part of this change.

Interviewed by 

Sadi Mohammad Shahnewaz