Sonya Jehan, the gorgeous granddaughter of the beautiful Noor Jehan Speaks On Her Upcoming Film

Sonya Jehan, the gorgeous granddaughter of the beautiful Noor Jehan plays the character of Ratanbala. She is utterly believable as the star Ratanbala, elegant yet fallible with a stunning presence.

Tell us little about your background. What has been the journey like?Aahmm, my background, I am half French half Pakistani. My grandfather Shauqat Hussin Rizvi was an editor and director in Bombay in the 1940's, my grandmother Noor Jehan was a very famous singer and actor of that time. When partition took place they left Mumbai to settle down in Lahore. My parents met each other in Lahore when my mother was traveling Pakistan.

When Sudhir came to you with Khoya Khoya Chand's script what was your initial reaction?

I was very excited and nervous too. I think after Taj Mahal', I decided Bollywood is not my thing. However, when Sudhir came over with this script, I did my best in the audition. I was in heaven when I got the role

What's the film 'Khoya Khoya Chand' about?

It's about the Hindi Film industry of the 1950's, it tells the story of that wonderful world, the relationship between directors, actors, scriptwriters and every one else in the film fraternity. It follows closely a relationship between two people - Soha and Shiney and their love story and the journey they go through.

What's your character?

I play the role of Ratanbala. She is an established actress; she is a diva, full of tantrums and attitude. However, she realizes, that her diva status is slowly moving over to Soha, the new emerging star in the horizon. So, she is struggling to keep up - to remain the super star and have the spot light.

And how do you personally relate to your role?

The fact that I am playing this character, this actress Ratanbala in the 1950's, brings me pretty much close to my grand mother. I was brought up by her, have always admired her. I remember seeing her with the camera and the spot light on her. I always said to myself that I would want to be here.

Any kind of preparations for Ratanbala's character?

Watched lots of movies with Nargis and Madubala. And also the films, which Sudhir recommended. Also listened to lots of music to study the beats.

Did you have to pick up a particular style?

There was no particular style as such, but for the dance routine. I think the dance style of 50's and 60's were totally different from today's style - kind of a little unusual and very elaborate.

What is so intriguing and interesting about Ratanbala?

Well, the fact that she did have shades of gray. She is someone who is very successful, who is facing her inner demon to be in the spotlight. Also, to see someone of that time; single and without children, must have been challenging but fun too.

What's the relationship you share with Soha Ali and Shiney Ahuja?

Working with Soha and Shiney was brilliant. Soha is playing the lead role of Nikhat, this young actress, comes from a very challenging background and Shiney is this very driven in life. He wants to be successful in life, and they find love and support with each other. My character in the film, doesn't want Nikhat to succeed. Doing this was actually quiet fun because off screen we all really get along very well. And Soha is like wonderful person, fun to work with, she is strong headed. And she has other things to talk about. Shiney is great as well.

What was it like doing the rain sequence?

It was actually fantastic. I always told myself that I could never see myself doing a rain dance with a drenched sari, but you know after the shoot, I felt kind of elevated. I felt as if I had reached another place because it's something that I have always seen as a child.

Any favorite scene?

I think the rain dance and the one at the piano bar.

What do you remember most about shooting KKC?

The unit, I loved the unit, it was a small unit and everyone knew each other. It was ver