"Salman sir has always told me three things: Be humble. Hard work is extremely important. That's what takes you forward in life. People want to work with you because you're hardworking. And never forget the people who brought you to the top, because that's the most important," Athiya said in an interview.
Considering Athiya's young age of 22 years, one would also expect father Sunil Shetty to give her lectures on how to do well in life.
"Papa is not the preachy type who would tell me how to act or how not to act. Salman sir is also not that type of person. They've always told me about life and about the industry, how to conduct myself and how to interact with people," she said.
Sunil, who himself has seen his share of ups and downs, has told Athiya about the inconsistencies in the industry.
"Papa is always the reminder in my life. He has told me, with success there is failure. No matter what, there are both ups and downs in life. And you have to handle yourself with respect, humility and an equal amount of grace."
Athiya is paired opposite Sooraj Pancholi in the film directed by Nikhil Advani which releases on September 11.