#KetchupTalks: "It truly hit me when I saw my scene on the director’s screen." - Rajsi Kinjalaskar

Rajsi Kinjalaskar, known for her quirky yet relatable content, became a part of Bejoy Nambiar's film, Tu Yaa Main. We had the opportunity to learn more about this experience!

Seeing content creators become an increasing part of movies is like seeing a vada pav stall near the beach. You just know they belong there. If you set aside the visuals and production, content creation is not very different from movies. Both are about storytelling and giving talents a chance to share their stories with the world. That's why, when we see faces that have become familiar through these small screens, on the bigger screen, we understand why they belong and deserve that space. Rajsi Kinjalaskar's Bollywood debut with Bejoy Nambiar's Tu Yaa Main came unexpectedly. Playing Sonali, Maruti Kadam aka Adarsh Gourav's sister in a thriller about a crocodile that teaches major life lessons, it's easy to get overshadowed and forgotten. But Rajsi left enough impressions that her audience enjoyed seeing her on the big screen. 

Playing a character that feels like an extension of her online characters we have come to love, Sonali serves as a visual representation of the middle-class woman striving to improve her life while maintaining her identity. Although this film marks her debut in Bollywood, she has always belonged on stage. Through her theatre performances, passion for modelling, and training in digital marketing, storytelling and being in front of the camera have been integral to her journey. As she continues to explore the world of fame, creativity, and entertainment, Rajsi sat down with us to discuss her experience of working on the film, the lessons her character taught her, and how she navigates people's expectations and more.

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Also Read - Tu Yaa Main review: A croc serves real lessons in this Gen-Z styled love-life drama!

Here's what Rajsi had to share about her Bollywood debut!

As we know, Tu Yaa Main is your debut on screen. How was your first day on set like? When did it truly hit you that you were living your dream?

On the first day, I was very nervous because it was my first time facing such a big camera, and it was also my introduction scene, so I was alone in the frame. I even had to hold a cat while delivering my dialogue, which made it more challenging. It truly hit me when I saw my scene on the director’s screen and realised I was finally living the dream I had worked towards for so long. That moment was overwhelming and very special for me.

What drew you to this script in particular? Was there a moment in Tu Yaa Main that made you say, “This is the one”?

Since I am Maharashtrian myself, I instantly felt connected to the character. I understood her emotions, her strength, and her mindset. That relatability gave me confidence, and I knew I would be able to do justice to the role. That was the moment I felt this project was truly meant for me.

As a newcomer who also has her own audience in the online space, how did you prepare for your character? Did you lean more on workshops, personal experiences, or instinct?

Since the role matched my cultural background, I relied a lot on personal experience and instinct. On-set readings and discussions also helped me understand the character better. I focused on staying honest and natural in my performance.

Debuts often come with pressure and expectations. What were your biggest fears going into Tu Yaa Main, and how did you work through them?

I had waited a long time for this opportunity, so there was definitely pressure to perform well. I was nervous about dialogue delivery and meeting expectations. But the on-set readings and the supportive environment helped me a lot. Also, since I have an audience in the online space, I wanted people to see that I earned this role because of my talent and not just because of my followers. I went through a proper audition process, and that gave me confidence.

How did your co-stars and director shape your performance in your first project? Was there a piece of advice from the set that stayed with you?

I feel extremely grateful that I got the opportunity to work with Bejoy Nambiar sir, Adarsh Gourav, Shanaya Kapoor, Ansh Chopra, and Kshitee Jog ma’am. I learned so much from all of them. We did on-set readings, understood each other’s characters, and built a comfort level. The environment was very collaborative, and there was always room for learning and suggestions. One piece of advice that stayed with me was: “Stay true to your work, and everything else will fall into place.” That really helped me stay grounded and focused.

Now that Tu Yaa Main introduces you to audiences, what kind of roles or stories are you hoping to explore next?

Since my debut role was close to my comfort zone, I now look forward to exploring more challenging and diverse characters. I want to grow as an actor and be part of meaningful stories that allow me to push my boundaries.

What do you think of watching creators in movies more often? Let us know in the comments below.