Tell us why you changed your screen name?
I changed my name from Rashmi Gopinath to Niviksha Naidu for luck, it’s numerologically correct and sounds catchy. Since I’m new in the industry I wanted a new and unique name.
How’s the pandemic changed your life?
Corona virus came onto our lives and has brought us so much trouble. The situation has been bad but all we can do is stay strong and spread positivity. Get vaccinated.
We need to be really there for one another during this crucial time.
All of us were so busy with our lives that we never really had time for anything. I was always travelling on work.
In lockdown I devoted lots of time to my family, hobbies and Myself. At the same time I dint stop working. I kept working on my acting skills every now and then. Lockdown was nature’s way of telling us to slow things down. I have better perspective on things now.
What attracted you to be an actor?
I have always found the variety and sense of escapism exciting. After I joined theatre I couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else other than acting. A part of me always knew I wanted to do this. But dint have the courage for it. Finally when I decided this is what I want, the sky is the limit now. I was having trouble at school and I had a lot of social anxieties and stuff, and acting was one thing that made that anxiety go away. I dint feel good about myself until I discovered acting and how happy it made me feel.
How do you feel about the projects you choose?
When you’re starting out, you don’t necessarily realise the importance of some decisions you make that may seem minor but can actually make a big difference. You really need to weigh the pros and cons in every situation.
It’s a learning curve. Now I’m a little more confident than I used to be before.
I have a bit more clear picture now.
Which is your favourite role that you played?
Im a newer to my acting career and I will never forget the very first role I was given. The script was challenging because I dint know the Tamil language and it also had lengthy monologues.
Do you have any female friends in the industry?
I’m very choosy when it comes to making friends. Because there’s lot of trust involved there. I rely on strong, smart, funny and loyal women in all areas of my life. Together we are stronger!
Who’s your support system?
There’s never only one person. There’s always those who believe in you and support you in everything you do.
My parents believe in me and they know how important acting is to me.
Also my friends with constant support and encouragement.
Are you particularly close to any member of your family?
Honestly, there isn’t one over another, we are all very tight and have individual relationships but like, so unquestionably loyal, would do anything for each other.
What drives you to get up everyday and work?
What drives me to get up every day and keep going even when the goings gets hard, is my deep passion. I don’t think you can accomplish anything great if you don’t have a passion for what you do.
What do you wish to see in the industry going forward?
I truly wish that people at the top, the decision makers, gave more young people a chance. People who are passionate and enthusiastic about what they do and need to prove themselves.
Are you on social media? How can our readers follow you online?
Yes. I have a love- hate relationship with social media. But you can certainly find me at @nivikshanaidu on Instagram and Twitter.
