It is important to work with famed directors like Yogaraj Bhat: Sonal Monteiro

Sonal Monteiro believes her upcoming film, Panchatantra will be a turning point in her career. "Every artiste searches for a breakthrough and I know this film is going to get me that. I am saying this confidently before the film’s release. The film has put me on a better platform. Especially the song Shrungarada Hongemara has taken me to the people. Filmmakers have noticed me, and I have been offered films from big banners thanks to it," she says. 

The actor, who began her career in Tulu before shifting to Kannada cinema, talks about her journey to become a part of the film, "To be honest, when I went for the audition, I was actually told that someone else had been selected. On producer Hariprasad Jayanna’s insistence, I still gave my audition in the hope that I might be part of one of Yogaraj sir’s upcoming projects. The same day, as I got back home and was entering the house, I got a call again from the producer saying the director wanted to meet me. Yogaraj sir said he liked my audition and producer Hariprasad said that I should come back in two days to sign the agreement. I was on cloud nine."
 
Sonal feels it is important for an upcoming actor like her to work with directors like Yogaraj Bhat. "Most of the films run because of the value of its actors and directors, and Yogaraj sir being a part of a film itself fetches the necessary buzz. Associating with him elevates our career. We learnt a lot of things, especially patience, from him. In the process, I have learnt to emote aptly, deliver dialogues better, and control my body language."

She is doubly excited to have bagged her second film, Gaalipata 2, with the same director. "The second project was definitely a surprise, and I am looking forward to joining the sets and learning more from him."
 
The actor, whose role as Sahitya in Panchatantra is "a mix of boldness and naughtiness," says the response for the song Shrungarada Hongemara has been overwhelming, "There are certain people who moral police me on social media and say that I shouldn't do such numbers. But as an actor, I should fit into any role."

About her experience of racing for the film, Sonal says, "Sitting beside Monish, an international racer, and Vihan for 25 days, I finally got rid of my Tachophobia (fear of speed). I was personally not a fan of speed, till Panchatantra happened. Now I feel it's normal. The racing sequences will be one of the most cherished moments in my life."