My family didn't know I acted in a film

She may have worked as an RJ and anchor, but a career in films was not a part of young actress

Pragati AS

's plan, considering that she hails from a family of academicians. 'I come from a family that places immense importance on education, which is why even I am a Masters degree holder. I was always interested in extracurricular activities, which my parents were proud of, but did not approve of as a livelihood. In fact, when I got the chance to audition for director

PH Vishwanath

's

Suli

through one of my college professors, I did not tell my family about it. They had no clue that I had acted in a film until recently,' says the actress.

Despite the initial lack of support from her parents, Pragati is proud of her debut film. 'I play a speech-impaired girl, who is the eldest daughter of actor Srinath. The film revolves around the two of us and is about this Muslim family from a small village in Karnataka. I had no acting experience, so Vishwanath sir had a 15-day workshop for me, during which I spent time with a Muslim family to observe the way they interacted with each other, and, most importantly, prayed. As for my character's speech impediment, Vishwanath sir did not want me to learn sign language. Instead, he asked me to adopt my own style,' she says. But getting into character was easier said than done. 'I am a motor-mouth and can't stop talking. I also love makeup and getting all dressed up. And here I was, playing someone who can't speak, wears no makeup and has no particular costume even,' laughs Pragati.