Humorously Yours! – Pooja Verma
She is as well known for her quick wit as she is for her roles in Pollywood movies. She has endorsed many top brands in the country and added glamour to popular music videos. Meet actress and model Pooja Verma from Delhi.
Pooja debuted in Punjabi cinema with ‘Baaz‘, starring alongside Babbu Maan, Mukul Dev and Yograaj Singh. She got recognized in the South with Malayalam movie ‘Cleopatra’. Snippets from a fun-filled chat with the lively and beautiful, Pooja Verma. (Enjoy the Punjabi albums below!)
Tell us your story – how did you land in the entertainment industry?
I am an Honours grad in Mathematics. I wanted to become a lecturer. However, after my graduation, I took up an internship at a Delhi-based event management company. One day, we were auditioning models for a face freshener brand at our studio. My colleagues encouraged me to participate in it though I was little hesitant. I auditioned, and the company liked my face. Ta-dah! I was on the brand’s print ad. That is how my modelling career began. Soon I was getting ad film offers, and I became part of brands such as Cadbury Dairy Milk, Ayur Beauty, Honda, Kevin, Kamdhenu Paints and Ajnara Builders. So there you have it, destiny wanted me to be an artist.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZKnvirnF4E]
Did education help you when making this career choice?
Well, Mathematics did not help me become an actor but, sure it is useful to count my money! Haha :p I’m very happy to have chosen this profession.
How difficult is it to get into modelling and acting in today’s Internet world?
In my opinion, it is not difficult to get into modelling these days. Take out your smart phone, click pictures, and get started. 😀
Describe your first television experience. How did you overcome the nervousness?
My first official audition for a TV show was little filmy, as in Om Shanti Om movie. I reached late for the audition. The crew members had almost packed up for the day. I went to them and said “Arre best candidate to ab aayi hai, subah se to sirf timepass hi kar rahe the aap log“. Everybody started laughing. May be the casting director liked my sense of humour and fun-loving nature. He asked his assistants to rearrange the lights and set the camera up. I am glad he took my audition.
Who enjoys your jokes the most – family / friends / followers?
I don’t know about the followers, but yes, my family and friends love it! [giggles]
Some photo shoots or brand campaigns you enjoyed working with the most?
I enjoy my every shoot. I love being in front of the camera. I have been part of Snapdeal, Chevrolet, Reliance, Samsung, Pantaloons, Nestle, Sprite, Coke, Himalaya Shampoo, ICICI, Tata Sky, TQS Shirts with Emraan Hashmi, POTHYS, Chennai Silks, Lion Oats and a lot more campaigns.
Working for my first Punjabi film Baaz is the best experience ever!! Each day of the filming is memorable for me. I enjoyed shooting for its songs the most!
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sh3jLS8jY_w]
Jus Reign is an Internet sensation known for his humorous videos. How was it working with him in ’22G Tussi Ghaint Ho‘?
I did not have many scenes with Jus Reign in the movie. I have met him off screen though. He is a wonderful person with superb sense of humour.
What preparation does it take to succeed in this industry?
Hard work and lots of patience are vital to be in this line of work.
Tell us about the Star Plus’ show Naamkaran?
I’m glad to be a part of such a big show. Naamkarann is a wonderful experience. Feeling blessed to be working with the man of excellence, Mahesh Bhatt sir, and with senior artists like Reema Lagoo ji. [signs off]
Modern Naari Rana Shaad ft:
[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXJe3HdjP0M]
Haye mera dil ft by Alfaaz and Honey Singh:
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCaxSSoMA8c]
(Humorously Yours is a TVF web series, btw.)
Pooja Verma is soon to be seen in Sonu Kakkar‘s new music video – stay tuned! Watch her Instagram stories here:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BNNxrzeD_pE/
Interview by Wajendhar R Kulkarni.