In real life, Shahana Goswami is quite the opposite of her on-screen characters. For starters, she's not at all the 'serious' type.

But at the same time, she's composed and knows what she's talking about. Known for her unconventional roles, the 26-year-old will be next seen in an film based on Salman Rushdie's novel. CS caught up with her for a chat:

Story over role
I tend to read the script for its totality. Of course I check what role I'm supposed to play and whether it'd be instinctive or mundane. Even if it's a small part, the character has to have a certain emotional journey to spare. I feel I'm in a transition phase right now.

Like I did Heroine, because at that moment I felt that showing a relationship between two female actors on the screen would be novel. That's what got me interested in the role. I'd love to move to the larger canvas where I'm playing the lead.


On-screen sex? It's fine
There are some lovemaking scenes in my next film which are not exactly awkward but emotional in nature. I believe it's part of my job to make it appear as real as possible. The way to go about it is not to think too much.

Besides, I'm not one of those actors who prepare beforehand. I'd rather let the atmosphere stimulate me and allow some spontaneity. Sex scenes are similar to emotional scenes. It's not a big deal doing them if they are choreographed in an aesthetic manner.

Are you serious?
The industry has slotted me as someone who can do only 'serious' roles but I'm an actor and love to experiment. If given a chance, I'd easily slip into Lara Craft kind of action or comedy roles for a change. I've been a sports person and a trained dancer for 10 years now, I even want to do an item number or a song-dance routine!