Claudia Ciesla: Kissing is easy, but I want to show my depth as an actor

After nearly seven years away from showbiz, Claudia Ciesla, who first came into the spotlight with Bigg Boss 3 (2009) and later appeared in Kya Kool Hain Hum 3, along with dance numbers in Khiladi 786 and Desi Kattey, is ready to return to acting with renewed focus and maturity.Explaining what kept her away, Claudia says, “I pursued a career in nutrition, which has always been an intrinsic part of me. In modelling and acting, we are expected to look our best, but I never wanted to torture my body by starving myself like some did before shoots. Out of curiosity to find healthier solutions, I started researching and completed certification and diploma courses in nutrition. Initially, it was about looking after myself, but it then became a passion. I’m a consultant and also conduct online workshops on this.”Now that her nutrition venture is established, she feels ready to refocus on acting. She says, “My other profession is set, so I can concentrate on my first love again. I am open to interesting projects and diverse characters. Also, I believe I am more mature and thoughtful as an actor today.”The Polish-born German actress believes that the OTT boom has opened doors for actors like her. “Web shows offer unusual scripts, layered roles and strong ensemble casts, not just hero-heroine stories. It is exciting because audiences now expect depth,” she shares.On how she approaches the growing trend of intimacy on OTT, Claudia, also remembered for her dance number Balma, says, “I do not want to come with a preconceived mindset, but as a foreigner, there is often a perception that we will do anything. I do not want that. I can retire at any time, so if I am pursuing acting now, it is purely out of passion. Kissing is easy, but I want to show my depth as an actor. I am not doing this for money or fame but for meaningful work that challenges me.”