She can act, she can sing, and she can pop and lock like a pro. Is there anything Shraddha Kapoor cannot do? Ruman Baig chats with the young firebrand to find out what makes her tick.Slow and steady is how one can best define Shraddha Kapoor’s Bollywood innings. Before she tasted the pathbreaking success of Aashiqui 2 in 2013, her previous films Teen Patti (2010) and Luv Ka The End (2011) met with lukewarm responses at the box office. It was only after her third film that Kapoor was finally recognised for her acting chops, and she hasn’t disappointed since. Not one to be typecast in a genre, the actor has constantly challenged herself by playing versatile roles—be it the girl-next-door Aarohi in Aashiqui 2, the multi-layered protagonist Arshia Lone in Haider, the vivacious optimist Aisha in Ek Villain, and the inimitable hip-hop dancer in the ABCD franchise. Her film Saaho is proof that the actor is far from restricting herself to an industry, leave alone a genre. She lets us in on her journey, and what lies ahead.As an actor, I want to be a part of different films, take on versatile roles, and push boundaries. The bar was set high with ABCD 2. Thus, in Street Dancer, it was crucial to outdo that performance, and I have recieved a great response.The irony is that my father has never picked up the phone to get me to meet anybody, and I feel like somewhere I’ve had to carve my own path. I have auditioned for many roles, and faced several rejections. I am grateful for them because they have made me the person I am today.That’s a good recollection because it’s one of my fondest memories of being on a film set, with Varun (Dhawan) and Namu (Govinda’s daughter Tina Ahuja’s nickname). And, yes! It feels surreal. I am grateful for being able to realise and live my dream. Every day has been a dream come true with the kind of films I have been part of, and the ones I will be doing in the future. It’s challenging, but amazing nonetheless.My perception about Hindi films was different before I got into the industry. I couldn’t imagine the hard work that goes into being an actor. I didn’t foresee it, and I think that has made me work harder. It has made me love and respect my craft more.No, I always wanted to become an actor. However, I felt that at the age of 15 or 16, I was too young and wanted to finish schooling and attend college. I don’t think getting offers back then has defined my success. But it was difficult to turn it down and focus on studies because it was such a fantastic opportunity to work with Salman Khan.Constructive criticism is important, as it helps me improve myself. But if the criticism is silly, I don’t pay much attention to it.My career started with lows; that laid a solid foundation to stay grounded, irrespective of the highs and success. I am grateful for that beginning because it didn’t come easy to me.The best part is that you get to play different characters as an actor. While some characters are inspirational, you might not be able to relate to the others. But you must tap into an aspect that allows the audience to connect with what they see on-screen. The more versatile a role, the more you discover yourself. And when you get constructive feedback, you start understanding how your process can also be different for each film.I am stoked to be a part of Street Dancer. After ABCD 2, expectations were high, and I hope everyone has loved the film. I am also thrilled about Baaghi 3, and the Luv Ranjan film (untitled) I am doing with Ranbir Kapoor.The love that I have received from this country and the audience is special.Definitely. I am here to live my dream of being an actor; I prefer keeping the focus on that.On most Sundays, I am working. But on a day off, you will find me at home with family or with my friends.For me, the best way to stay fit is dance. With Street Dancer, I got the opportunity to dance to my heart’s content.By not letting it get to me, moving on, and working on what I need to do next.My favourite track pants, a T-shirt, and sneakers.Nothing beats a sari or Indian attire.I am not rigid with my diet because I love food. However, I do try to keep a balance between junk food and eating healthy.I am not a big fan of animal prints. A trend that I do love is wearing athleisure as everyday casuals.My mom. I look up to her for who she is and how she thinks. In fact, my parents have played a huge role in shaping my perspective.—With inputs from Nikita D’silva