Neha Dhupia believes in breaking rules. She sets new goal posts and invariably puts her best foot forward. This can be seen from her innings in Roadies and now with #NoFilter. It not only marks her foray into production but she has also become the first Indian actress to host her own audio celebrity talk show.
Combining her wit with ability to enter into engaging conversations with famous people from the world of entertainment, Neha has taken this celebrity chat show to a higher notch.
Excerpts from an interview
As host of #NoFilterNeha, you interview celebrities in the most unfiltered manner. How did you come up with this idea?
I was always wanting to turn into a producer for a long time and this was definitely something that I was very keen to do. So, I pitched the concept of having an unfiltered chat with my really famous friends to Rishi Malhotra and Gaurav Wadhwa from Saavn in the valet parking of a restaurant. They thought I should have my own chat show as I have a great sense of humour. It took us four- and-a-half hours to finally decide that we want to do with this and we did it. Season 1 of #NoFilterNeha featured several celebrities at their wittiest best. It was a quick-witted wild ride for 18 million listeners as they got to know their favourite artists and athletes like never before.
Can you reveal what season 2 has to offer?
Season 2 is bigger, wittier and wackier.
Our extensive research, attention to detail and respect for each guest is what makes this show extra special. With no cameras in sight, the stars are at their most honest. They share their deepest secrets, wildest dreams and funniest stories. Audiences are made privy to fluid and candid conversations, giving fans a peek into what the stars are like off-camera.
Was it challenging being the only woman among the men in the judging panel of Roadies?
At times, it was quite tough when all boys ganged up against one girl; it was really hard to beat the nexus. Still Roadies is, by far, the best thing that happened to me. The most amazing thing about being on a show like this is that it makes me aware of my ability to bounce back, my ability to be competitive, and my ability to go ahead, excel physically and mentally when under pressure.
Being a gang leader helps me excel in my personal life as well, because it pushes me to the point where I need to take quick decisions and I need to work well under pressure.
How would you describe your journey as an actress?
My journey as an actress can be best described in one word — relevant. I am just constantly trying to do better stuff. I don’t believe in taking breaks. I started modelling almost 18 years ago and before that I was doing theatre. I had my share of ups and downs, but it’s definitely been an amazing ride, a promising one.
What is success in its real essence?
According to me, health plus happiness equals success. You might get rich and have all the fame in the world, but you may not be happy from inside. When I was young my parents blessed me by saying ‘We wish you all the health and happiness in the world’. I never realised the importance of that but now that is the success mantra for me.