New star of the new decade. That’s how the poster of Jawaani Jaaneman describes its debutante, Alaya F. Is the 22-year-old facing the burden of expectation with such a tag? I already put so much pressure on myself I don’t think anyone else’s pressure matters, says Alaya. I am flattered. "It is the pressure that makes me want to work hard and live up to it.In Jawaani Jaaneman, a middle-aged man’s playboy lifestyle (Saif Ali Khan) is halted with the entry of a daughter (Alaya F) he didn’t know he had. One reason I love this character because she’s very similar to me. I like that because people get a glimpse into who you are, says Alaya. It’s quite hard to act like yourself.
The 22-year-old admits to initially being intimidated in the presence of Saif, Tabu, Kumud Mishra and Farida Jalal. I was quite scared on day one with Saif Sir, she says. After a few shots, he makes you feel so welcome and easy. It’s a very collaborative process. Talking about Tabu, who plays her hippie mother, Alaya said, She is such a warm person and so good at what she does.
Alaya is hopeful to make a first good impression. Hopefully in the film, I will be able to stand my own and not look like a lost lamb. I think I have put enough work in.