Adult star-turned-Bollywood actor, Sunny Leone, gets talking about the hypocrisy in society and the kind of questions that are posed to her constantly…
Isn’t working in mainstream Hindi cinema a different ball game altogether?
Absolutely. When I was offered my debut film, I knew that the brand was known by the audience and they would be intrigued enough to want to watch the movie. But their response towards me has been amazing.
So what would you attribute this popularity to?
I think people are very curious about me. They’ve seen me in Bigg Boss and know my work. So, they want to see me in person. They want to understand me… they want to see how I look up close and personal.
People are also hypocritical — while one half of the political spectrum wanted the posters of your film removed, while the other half wants you to attend their events.
You know, people are hypocritical everywhere. Every society has double standards. As far as these incidents go, there are always going to be negative people around who try to bring you down. But if you know who you are as an individual, these things won’t bother you. Many people criticized my film, but there are many more who are going and watching it.
You recently said you only have sex with your husband. Is there a need to constantly answer such queries?
Well, a lot of people have preconceived notions of who I am — an adult film actor, reality star and movie actor. People think I have worked with many people in my career as an adult film actor. I haven’t and I don’t! I rarely work with multiple people in the adult film industry. I know it’s hard to believe, but in 12 years, I have done next to nothing when compared to the stuff that people actually do! I think it’s important for me to make such statements as people are curious.
Many say your movie was a let-down because you haven’t exposed much…
We have a different set of rules in India. There is a Censor Board we have to answer to, whose rules are pretty strict. There is an adult film industry everywhere. But I did this movie knowing it is mainstream Hindi cinema. I’m sorry for letting them down by not exposing (laughs). But hey! They bought the tickets, so I want to thank them!
People expect that your background will also spill onto the screen while doing mainstream cinema.
I’m from a different industry and country. It’s just my first film. But I know it’s going to take a long time for people to change their perception of me. Right now, I have this burning desire in me as an actor to convert my critics. I can act and I want to prove it to those who feel I can’t. I have left my past behind and I am looking forward to a new career.
