Whether it's environment or literacy campaigns, actor-producer Dia Mirza has always been in the forefront when it comes to lending celebrity support

The lady is now the part of a campaign for tiger conservation in India. CS caught up with Dia to talk about her new initiative and life as a producer.


Need of the hour
I feel that tiger conservation is a matter of national importance. We need more people to come forward and show support to the cause, it can be in form of signing petitions or providing financial aid.

Conservationists like Raj Krishnani and Bittu Sahgal have worked tirelessly for this cause, and more people should chip in. Working for something as rewarding as this project can give anyone a huge sense of accomplishment.

Environmental issues have been close to my heart since childhood. It has a lot to do with my upbringing, especially with my early education at Vidyaranya High School. I feel great when people approach me to be the face of social causes.

I firmly believe that the harm we do to our forests, wildlife and ecology ultimately comes back to us (gets serious).


The celebrity power
Bollywood has always reached out to people whether it was the Gujarat earthquake or the recent floods in Uttarakhand. Actors are sensitive human beings, after all.

There is a term called, 'Using your celebrity well' and I think that B-Town actors use their celebrity status to good effect. I hope my presence can inspire the new generation of actors to come forward for this cause. I know there are many genuine people around who want to help.

I am proud to be part of an industry that has people lending their presence to various campaigns, right from the times of Shabana Azmi, Om Puri and Naseeruddin to reigning superstars like Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan.


Donning the producer's hat
I have evolved in life after entering into production. I find the idea of making films a very meaningful one. The responsibility is huge but I love it. I would say that my strong point is people management whereas money management is my weakness.

You need to balance both the head and the heart in production but I am all heart (laughs out loud). As a viewer, I love human-interest films, coming-of-age cinema that deals with realistic situations.

I know that films are meant for entertainment but a lot can be achieved in those two-three hours. The impact of cinema is indelible and I want to get people thinking.