- Anchal Singh who Acted as “Yashodara” in “Sri Siddhartha Gautama”
This beautiful actress is from India. She kept her footprints on the island of Sri Lanka for her debut movie “Sri Siddhartha Gautama”, in which she played the iconic role of “Yashodara” working hand in hand with Sri Lankan film directors and actors.
The cast included Gagan Malik of Indian fame, and other artistes who together formed a stupendous and true to form depiction of the characters. Anchal Singh (India), Ranjan Ramanayake (Sri Lanka), Anjani Perera (USA), Gautam Gulati (India), Roshan Ranawana (Sri Lanka), Saranga Disasekara (Sri Lanka), Dilhani Perera (USA), and Wilson Gooneratne (Sri Lanka) play lead roles in the movie.
Heart wrenching in portraying an essential human side to this influential figure, the movie also captures the emotional interlock of those around him.
Of time spent on the movie, Anchal says “The experience was wonderful”.
9090 got in touch with her for a brief chat:
Q :Anchal, my favourite question from my international interviewees - tell us about your experience in our beautiful island.
I have had one of the most mesmerising experiences of my life here in Sri Lanka. Not only the experience of beauty of nature but I have also met people who had the warmest hearts in the world. Sri Lanka has bestowed upon me so much in life.It has given me success, appreciation and most importantly love from all the people. I will always carry this in my heart.
Q : Tell us the story of how you got selected from India for the movie ‘Sri Siddhartha Gautama’.
The role of Yashodara was a divine blessing for me. Sri Siddhartha Gautama not only gave me an opportunity to act in a movie but also gave me an opportunity to rise up spiritually.
I would like to convey my special thanks to our producer Mr. Navin Ji who was responsible for not only producing this epic motion picture but also for letting me a part of this.
Sri Siddhartha Gautama is a revolution and has inspired people from all walks of life to inculcate in themselves the values of a true good human being. I am so glad I was a part of this.
I first auditioned for Mr. Navin Ji and his team in Mumbai, India. Then after getting shortlisted, I was asked to fly to Sri Lanka. Finally on my second trip to this beautiful island, I was selected. I was told that a few hundred girls auditioned from India and so many other countries before me. This role came to me not only because of my acting skills but also and very importantly because of my connection to the spiritual world. For this, I credit my parents for the most perfect upbringing of their daughter. I want to thank Mr. Chandram Rutnam who truly encouraged and helped me, Mr. Saman and cinematographer for their support; and from my heart I extend thanks to the Sri Lankan stars who became a part of my journey.
Sri Siddhartha Gautama had led to flowering the soul of the people of this beautiful island and brought in humanity, peace and harmony.
Q : Would you like to take up more acting jobs in Sri Lanka? Any preferences?
I certainly look forward to doing more roles especially in Sri Lanka because of the tremendous love showered upon me by the people of Sri Lanka. The role of Yashodra was very special, spiritual and soul-filling. The connection I have built with this role shall remain with me and in me forever. Yet the actress within me yearns to do more and spread more happiness. So yes I will be happy to do more cinema work in Sri Lanka.
Q : What are your plans for the future?
As an actress, I certainly want to do well. True achievement comes only when people love and respect you. As a human being, I want to be part of movements that explore humanity and bring out peace and happiness in people. I want to use my success and popularity to help reach out to people.
Q : What do you prefer more? Film acting, television acting or modelling?
Acting in films is my passion. Apart from this I take interest in modelling assignments too.
Q : Are you in love?
Yes. After this movie and such lovely experiences here, I am in love with Sri Lanka!
Q : Are you a Buddhist?
I am not a Buddhist but Buddha preached to the world and I am a part of this world. The Buddhist principles apply to all of us and tells us to be good human beings, so in that sense I am a Buddhist.
Q: What are your thoughts on cattle slaughter and animal cruelty?
It’s very sad to know how cruelty is inflicted on animals. All the creatures of God have a right to live. Man, who has been gifted with intelligence, should use this in the best way and not to kill animals. I definitely immensely support activists trying to eradicate such cruel activities.
- 9090 Talk
