Profession | Actor and Musician
Bio
Lovingly called ‘Andii’ by her friends and family, Andrea Tariang is a well-known former singer of the band, Lavender Groove based in Mumbai. Like her rockstar father, Rudy Wallang of Soulmate, she plays the guitar and has collaborated with top pianist, Karan Joseph. She also plays one of the lead roles in the upcoming social thriller Pink which is releasing this month. This 24-year-old Khasi girl claims that the hard-hitting storyline representing issues faced by women in India as part of their day-to-day lives was what drew her to the character. She describes her experience debuting under a big banner like Rising Sun Films as ‘unreal’.
How was it working with Amitabh Bachchan and the entire Pink crew?
Working with Mr Bachchan was something else! He made sure we were comfortable and did not mind rehearsing as many times as you wanted. He’s so passionate about what he does and it was an absolute pleasure to work with him. The entire Pink team are some of the most genuine, kind, helpful people I have met. I would do it all over again!
How did you prepare for the role?
Few months before the shoot, we would all meet and go through the script. My two co-artistes Taapsee Pannu and Kirti Kulhari were always there to help me.
Tell us about the film? In what way, do you think the movie will influence the audience?
PINK is a social thriller that has an extremely important message for not just the youth but also for parents, grandparents, teachers and the society in general. When you watch the film, you will know what I mean.
On a day off, what do you like to do?
I like to make music, read and play with my kitty.
What advice would you give to all the aspiring young girls and boys back home who want to pursue a career in acting?
There is no one who can stop you, but YOU! If you want something, go for it without hesitation. Be confident and proud of who you are and where you come from. Anyone can do it, I am just a small part of it and for that I am thankful. I hope to see many more people from the Northeast realizing their dreams too.
As told to Rudy Marak
This interview was first published in Eclectic Northeast September 2016
