Life is too short not to pursue your passion. These words of wisdom have been the guiding force of Heli Daruwala, an Indian actress, who also happens to be a dentist, a dancer, and a restaurateur. She made her debut on the small screen with the daily soap ‘Love You Zindagi’ in 2011 followed by several other shows such as Naagin, Daastan -E- Mohabbat, Ye Rishte Pyaar Ke, Haiwaan among others. In a quick chat with TMM, she talks about her decade journey in the dynamic industry.

You are a dentist and an entrepreneur who runs a cafe. How and when acting happen to you?
I always was very clear about pursuing acting since childhood. So after finishing dentistry, I gave myself some time and decided to follow my passion for acting and everything by god’s grace just fell into place. Cafe happened much later in the recent past.

You are also a passionate dancer. What dance means to you?
Dance to me is a spiritual experience. The only way I know to express myself completely and feel one with the higher self. I cannot imagine a single day without it.

If you have to choose between dance and acting, what will you choose and why?
I am equally in love with both. I would say acting as a dancer in some projects would be perfect.

2020 had been a successful year as you were a part of 4 music videos. How did you manage so much work amidst the pandemic?
I believe what is meant to be will always find its way if you are consistent with your efforts. I only focused on my dance in the lockdown. It felt like I magically landed all the four beautiful projects I have been a part of in 2020 each at the perfect timing.

It’s almost a decade for you in the entertainment industry. What is your biggest learning?
My biggest learning is that good thing take time. Also, it’s only you and your art that can take you places. So, be consistent, work on yourself and be so good at what you do that you become irreplaceable.

You are very active on Instagram. Do you really enjoy it or it’s because of your profession? What else you love doing in your leisure time?
I enjoy being on Instagram and also being an actor it is the only way to stay connected with the fans who are more like family and have been with you for years, follow your work, and shower immense love.

Are you a foodie? If yes, what you love to eat the most, and do you enjoy cooking?
I am not a foodie as such, but, I have a limited list of things that I like. So if I get a pizza every day, I can happily live with it. I don’t know how to cook, but I really want to learn.

What are your expectations from 2021?
I wish 2021 turns out to be extremely beautiful for everyone. Personally, I am looking forward to amazing projects, some good travel, a lot of dancing and seeing a normal healthy world again.