Girl Next Door: Madhurima Tuli

Hey, Madhurima. What are you up to these days?

I am meeting new people, reading scripts and exploring myself.

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Tell us more about it…

Well, since long it was pending that I spend time with myself. I feel that it is very important to realise where you have reached and where you have to go. So I am really loving this time. In between, I’m also looking for some interesting projects to work on.

How was it working in 24-Season 2?

Oh, it was an amazing experience to work in 24-S2. It is a path-breaking show On Indian television and with Anil Kapoor being a part of it, it was really exciting to work. The character I played, of Dr Devyani Bhowmik, taught me a lot. It helped me to maintain balance even at the lowest phase of my life. I just hope that I could incorporate it in my real life as well because ups and downs are parts of life.

Will you be returning for Season 3?

Well, audience loved me in S2 and all my friends too are asking if I will be reprising my role in S3. I think that it totally depends on Anil Kapoor, if he comes back with the third season of the series.

From ads to TV series and movies. Which one is your favourite?

All of them! Because I get to do what I love, that is to be in front of the camera.

We don’t know much about you. Enrich us, please…

My dad used to work in Tata steel, so we have mostly travelled from one place to another so I say that I am from all over India. I was a state level athlete, but later changed my profession to acting. I am a carefree, moody, passionate dancer, traveller and ambitious girl!

Were you a naughty child? What’s most embarrassing moment that you can recall from your childhood?

I was a very quiet child. You could say that I was very shy and introvert type. I have become naughty after growing up (winks).

Are you a shopaholic? Which is your favourite shopping destination?

There are days when I don't shop, but suddenly one day I just get up and go shopping and become a shopaholic (haha). Bangkok and Dubai have good stuff.

Any plans of going to your favourite holiday spot anytime soon? We would try not to follow you…

I was planning to go to Denver for Christmas, but had to cancel it for some work. But soon I will be going somewhere. I will be waiting for you guys to follow me (winks).

Do you like the idea of drunk dialling? Who would be the person you’d call?

(Hahaha) Yeah, I did that once. It was fun because I was dating the guy. Now I need to be in love to drunk dial.

Are you seeing someone?

No, I am very much single and gay!

So, what are the 5 qualities of a man that attract you?

Umm… Personality, good odour, mannerism, cleanliness and sense of humour attract me a lot in a guy.

And what are the turn-offs?

Fake attitude, bad odour and bad hygiene just turn me off big time. I cannot stand those people.

Where would you want your date to begin?

Umm… with a good dinner somewhere in a nice environment.

And where should it end up?

First date should always end with just the dinner (winks).

Do you like pickup lines?

Umm… Yes, if it's used by the guy I have a crush on. But not very cheesy ones.

So, what’s the silliest pickup line a guy has used to get your attention?

‘You remind me of my grandmother!’ This is what Bollywood does to you (haha).

What are the chances of a stranger successfully asking you out?

If I like him, he can definitely be successful. Otherwise, NOPE!

What’s the most scandalous thing you’ve ever done?

Once I was so pissed that I started abusing in Hindi to the staff, but later I felt really disgusted about it. I will abuse in English now (hehe)! Just kidding.

Where was the craziest place you ever made love at?

I’m still looking for that craziest me, craziest place and the craziest love.

If you had to be one half of a lesbian romance, and had to pick in a female co-star. Who would you choose?

Wow! I think I will choose Priyanka Chopra. I have a girl crush on her (blushes).

What’s the most embarrassing moment you remember from your teenage?

In school I use to see girls colour their hair and look really cool. I also tried colouring my hair once at home, but it turned into a major mishap. I had to go to the school next day with the same hairstyle. Luckily, I only got a scolding from my mom and not the teachers because I was one of their favourite students.

What’s that one thing you did in the past that you wish you could undo?

I don't think I want to undo anything. I have had a great past. I have learnt from my mistakes and would definitely try not to repeat them.

What’s that one habit you’d like to get rid of?

Nail biting! Argh! I just hate myself for it!

If you could jump into a pool of something, what would it be?

Lizards! (Eek)!

On a parting note, how soon will we get see you next on the silver screen?

Well, I am doing a guest appearance in Naam Shabana and other than that, I have some things lined up. I will update soon.

From the December 2016 issue of FHM India.