Director Anubhav Sinha's latest Netflix series, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack received a positive response from the critics as well as audiences. The show, which is based on Captain Devi Sharan's memoir stars Vijay Varma, Dia Mirza, Pankaj Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, Arvind Swamy, Patralekhaa, and others. 

Amid the show's success, actress Patralekhaa sat down for an exclusive chat with OTTplay where she reacted to the controversy around the show, talked about her relationship with Rajkummar Rao, shared her experience in the industry, and more!

Excerpts from the interview

You mentioned it took six months to convince Anubhav Sinha to cast you in the series. How did you maintain your motivation and perseverance during that period?

I was quite clear that I wanted to work with Anubhav sir, I’ve watched his work and I’m a very big admirer of his work. And, I was convinced to be a part of this show so I convinced him. 

What was the most challenging aspect of shooting for IC 814?

Just being inside the flight. It was claustrophobic, it was scary. There were so many people and no place for movement. Also, you’re put in a situation of hijack so it cannot be comfortable.

How did collaborating with the rest of the cast and crew influence your performance and experience on the show?

No, I didn’t think of it. I didn’t even think that ‘oh my god! There’s Naseer sir, Pankaj sir, Kumud sir, Manoj sir. These are all veterans, how do you compete with them? And I’m too young in the game to even think that way, so I didn’t. 

Besides the positive reviews, the show has created a loud chatter around social media about a few things that audiences did not like. Does this affect you?

I’m not much on social media so I don’t know what the chatter is. I’m on Instagram, I post my stuff, and I get out of it. 

Auditioning in Bollywood can be really tough. How do you deal with the challenge of proving yourself beyond just your looks?

Yeah! It’s so competitive. Because there is so much competition and looks are of course important for a girl. I can sit here and say ‘Oh no it doesn’t matter', of course, it matters. But I feel, right now, if you’re a good actor, that is also accountable.

There’s often discussion about cosmetic procedures in the context of public figures, including you and Rajkummar. Do you and Raj talk about this?

You know your truth. What’s there to discuss?

You and Rajkummar Rao are often seen as 'couple goals.' What advice would you give to people today who are having trouble finding the right partner?

Manifest that thing. If one thing that’s in abundance, that is love! I love him, he is the most amazing person on planet Earth. 

Given that August has been quite eventful for both you and Rajkummar, how are things on the personal front? How do you both handle the pressures of your respective careers?

We are very happy for each other. It's a really good time for both of us. It's the beginning I feel, I wish we see many more such days and years. It's kind of a celebration.

Having been in the industry for over a decade, what continues to drive your passion for acting?

I love acting. I love going to the sets. I was always very determined. My journey was very difficult, but I was very determined that I wanted to do this.

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