I have two boyfriends: Soniya

Make no mistake about Soniya’s priorities while she effortlessly balances her career in movies as well as a course in medicine
Why did you quit being a part of Sudhakar Vasanth’s ACP Ranveer?
In ACP Ranveer, I was offered the role of the heroine’s only friend-cum-caretaker. As Akansha is visually impaired, my character has a significant role in the storyline. But, after Matric Failreleased (where I played the second lead), I started getting lots of offers to play the lead role.That’s when I started thinking that perhaps I should not settle for anything less than a protagonist’s role. Matric Fail, with its big banner and starcast, acted as a perfect launchpad for me. But, I always wanted to be a mainstream heroine and not get typecast as the second lead. So, I decided not to do the movie.
Then why did you make a guest appearance in that much-talked-about song? Was it because you somehow wanted to be associated with this project, which is being considered as Anubhav’s next big release?
When I decided not to do the film, both Anubhav and Sudhakar Sir were very understanding and supportive. So, when they called me up for a guest appearance, I instantly agreed. I also did it for Sudhakar Sir. From the very first day of my career, he has been my friend, philosopher and guide. Sudhakar Sir has actually groomed me. Besides, it’s always an honour for budding stars like us to share screenspace with Anubhav bhaiya.
What do you expect from yourself as an actor? Do you think you have the extra something to be a mainstream heroine?
I think, I do. I have enough confidence in me and I’m completely self-motivated. In 2009, I participated in the Pantaloons Femina Miss India contest. Back then, I was just in the first year of my medical college. I even got through the east zone. For further participation, we had to go to Mumbai. But, my parents didn’t allow me to do that. They still want me to be a good doctor. But, I stubbornly pursued my dream to become an actor.
How do you manage to balance your studies with a career in movies?
I’ve learnt to compartmentalize my life. Being a medical student, you have no option but to study. So, for now, I keep 10 days for the actor-me. The rest of the month is for the doctor-me. It’s not that I didn’t or don’t have to make compromises. I had to leave MBBS and take up the dental course for the simple reason that the course takes less time to complete than one in general medicine. But, I never regret my decision since I’m where I want to be.
Now that you are an actor, do your college friends treat you differently?
To my close friends, I’m still the same girl. But others in college have started treating me in a more formal fashion after my first movie. Professors also single me out and ask about my next movie. This attention feels good. They have also been extremely sweet. Every one of my batchmates and professors went to watch Matric Fail and have congratulated me personally.
What’s your next project?
I’ll be doing Appu Kanungo’s next movie, Happy New Year. The film is scheduled to have a Valentine’s Day release.
Do you watch the Odia movies that are being made now?
I try to watch most of the new-age Odia films in a theatre. I think a lot of things have changed in Ollywood — the style of direction and the focus (which is now more on entertainment). I think that’s a good thing as the audience’s tastes also have changed.
Don’t you want to try your luck in Bollywood?
Of course, I do. But, firstly, I want a strong foothold in Ollywood. I want to learn all the technical nuances of filmmaking. I won’t venture into Bollywood unless I’ve been groomed properly.
What about your personal life? Do you have a special someone?
I have two boyfriends — my studies and my career. They keep me so busy that I don’t have time for anyone else.