This week the Youth Observer reached out to a talented model and an upcoming actress, Nayanathara Kaluarachchi.
In conversation with Nayanathara, here’s what we found out.
Q: How did you get into Modeling?
A: I started modeling when I was in school, precisely when I was doing my A-levels. I did a bridal shoot for one of my friends. That’s when I actually got into it for the first time. Before it became a job for me it was actually a dream first, I dreamed about being a professional model who walked a ramp, a professional who was praised by the industry. Now, I’ve been in Model for 11 years.
Q: Tell us some of the modeling projects that you are proud of?
A: To name a few, I was part of the ‘Thambapanni’ bridal shower for over six years and also the ‘Arundhati’ show. As a part of the shows I have gained a lot of experience, gotten to work with people of different cultures, learn about different cultures and also travel all over the island, so while I am so glad and proud of being part of these projects I am also feel extremely blessed.
Q: How did you get into acting?
A: It’s only been about four years since I got into acting. it actually just happened, it was not pre planned. I got an opportunity and I went for it. And since then I have been in about 5 tele dramas and about three movies. I’m actually in a tele drama that is being telecast on TV these days, called ‘Seesarla’. Since I started acting, I’ve always wanted to work with Mr. Udaya Kantha Warnasooriya in one of his projects, and I finally got the chance. I am in his movie, ‘gini avi saha gini keli’, Which we start shooting this month.
Q: Do you prefer telly dramas or movies?
A: I prefer movies.
Q: Was modeling a stepping stone to get into acting?
A: Definitely not. Modeling is my profession. Acting is more like a hobby. If I was ever given a choice to choose between the two I would pick modeling.
Q: Who inspires you in your modeling career?
A: My biggest inspirations are Chula Padmendra, Rozanne Diaz.
Q: What is your opinion on changing fashion trends?
A: I believe it is important to keep up with the trends, however everything that works in the western world is not working in our country. Will you function within several social and cultural parameters and it is a duty as professionals to respect them. However, I do think Fashion is art, and there’s always a story behind a fashion trend. Pick what suits us and what we represent.
Q: Is there an actor or a director that you have not worked with so far, but you wish to work with?
A: I am happy to work with talented people and get myself exposed to new challenges. However, these days, I’m very impressed by Supun Ratnayake’s work and I would like to work with him in the near future.
Q: As a public figure, do you think it’s important to be careful on social media?
A: Most definitely. I believe we have a responsibility for the content that we create and the kind of content that we put out and it is up to us to make sure that we maintain an image in a way that it cannot be tarnished. Like I said earlier, it is actually important to respect the social and cultural boundaries that we function within. So in that manner I believe we have to be mindful.
Q: How is the support you have received from your friends’ family?
A: They have been very supportive. Especially my friends, they have taken it upon themselves to make sure I succeed and I’m extremely grateful for the existence and the continuous support that they give me. I’m also very grateful for my husband who is like a shadow behind me in everything I do. He has become my strength, my pillar, and I am extremely grateful and thankful for his support.
Q: Is there any advice that he would like to give upcoming models and actors?
A: I don’t know if I’m qualified to give advice specially to actors because I am very new to the field. One thing I can say is before you get into a field. Just make sure you are properly educated and aware of what you are about to do. Learn everything about it, learn from the people already in the industry, read about it, analyse movies and modeling shows that you watch. If you come in with a clear vision and determination, you have a long way to go.
Pix: Thilak perera
