Hailing from Chandigarh, Yami Gautam had not even imagined in the wildest of her dreams that she would make it into mainstream commercial films.

In a candid chat with CS, Yami talks about the changes in her life, life after Vicky Donor and juggling between Bollywood and South Indian films:


Acting by chance
When I was in college, I never thought I would work in films. I hadn't even planned to become an actress, but things just fell in place. In fact, I am still camera shy. But it feels great to be a part of the industry. As I am a spiritual and religious person by heart, I believe God blessed me with all the success.


Life after Vicky Donor
After Vicky Donor's success, life has become super hectic. I have to now juggle between films in Bollywood, South, advertisements, events and appearances. Although, I am glad I am a part of cinema which is the biggest medium of entertainment in India.

The joy of ownership
Mumbai has given me success in my career as well as a fast pace to my life. My current house here is a rented one and though I travel to the South a lot for my films, I would prefer having my own home in Mumbai as well as my hometown Chandigarh.


Chandigarh vs Mumbai
When I was in Chandigarh, we had this different perception of Mumbai - it was a city of dreams. And when I actually arrived here, I realised that everything here was very intimidating and I initially felt lost in its vastness. Chandigarh is a well-guarded, small town, planned and organised.

Mumbai is very fast. But at the same time, it provides many opportunities and embraces you the way you are. Life is slightly different here, a lot of time goes in travelling. You keep running around here. But I have adapted very well to the city.


Bollywood v/s South
I don't find much of a difference between Bollywood and the South Indian film industry, except the language. It's a great experience to work with southern directors and I am proud to be associated with them. The industry there is well planned, organised and punctual in its functioning.

Everything there is worth appreciating whether in terms of the efficiency or planning. I am currently working with Gautam Menon. In the beginning of my career, I had done a Malayalam film with Prithiviraj. At that time, I found it to be one of the toughest languages ever.

But I like to face challenges and believe that if you want to achieve something in life, you have to push yourself and give your best. I did just that and now it's not so difficult to do South Indian films.