Model-turned-actress Latha Hegde debuts with Tuntari. In this exclusive interview to IndiaGlitz, the fledgling actress says that she is not open to skin show. She further talks about working with Kumar Nagendra and Nara Rohit, why many models want to become actresses, why she likes the fact that her choreographer made her cry, and more.

How did this film happen to you?

This film happened so out of the blue for me. I was in New Zealand that time. I got a call from an agent. I hadn't done much modelling. I had no acting experience either. So, I couldn`t believe it`s genuine. I found out through my relatives and family friends in Hyderabad that the project is genuine. After all this, I feel it has been quite a ride. (Smiles).

Did you a clue about acting before?

No. I didn`t have any clue about acting. All that I had done was Miss India-New Zealand, a beauty pageant. I was brought up in NZ. I moved there when I was 7. I did all my schooling there. Tuntari happened so suddenly.

Did you have any reservations about making your debut down South and not in Bollywood?

I have no reservations about language. I really enjoyed doing this film. I myself am a South Indian and love South Indian films.

How has the experience in modelling helped you as an actress?

I wasn`t so scared of the camera. I knew how to be in front of the camera. So, that helped me a lot to focus on emotions, and delivering dialogues properly rather than starting from the scratch.

What kind of a role are you playing in Tuntari?

I am playing a girl-next-door kind of girl. She is very decent and a family girl. She is crazy about sports. She wants to become a tennis player, but she is not good at it. So, she has an attraction towards guys who are good at sports. That`s how she falls in love with the lead character.

How could you relate to the character?

I could connect with it as I too am not good at sports. (Laughs)

How was it working with Nara Rohit?

Rohit is really down-to-earth. He always helped me out on the sets. As I did not know the language, he would explain me what different things meant.

Between a glamorous role and a traditional girl`s role, which one would you choose?

If by glamorous role you mean skin show, I will choose a traditional girl's role any day.

What kind of a person are you in real life?

My friends describe me as talkative, crazy. I am a neat freak. It`s like an OCD. (Laughs).

Do you want to take up any campaign in future for the causes dear to you?

I have a huge passion for animal rights. So, I will be part of a campaign for their sheltering. I have been associated with SAFE in NZ.

Why do many models want to become actresses?

In modelling, you are just a picture. In cinema, you come to life. So, many models naturally like to be actresses.

Share any funny incident that happened on the sets of Tuntari?

My choreographer Baba Bhaskar is a very jovial person and would crack jokes on me. If I didn't get something right, he would say, 'Go back to NZ, you can`t dance properly'. He would make me cry. But he is a major highlight.

How was it working with Kumar Nagendra?

He doesn`t get stressed out at all. He is a very calm person. Being a firstcomer, I am so blessed that I got to work with a director like him.

Finally, what would you say about Tuntari?

It's a film packed with comedy, fantasy elements, and emotions. It`s suitable for everyone - families, youngsters, and all.