There’s something about Maryam

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Born in Iran, brought up in Sweden and now making her full-fledged Bollywood debut with the film, Grand Masti, Maryam Zakariya has come a long way from the time she stood in front of the TV as a teenager, mimicking the way Bollywood greats, like Madhuri Dixit, moved.

Her love for Hindi cinema and many natural abilities as a dancer soon made her a much sought after Western import, first in the south and, then in Hindi films. She showed that she had what it takes to match steps to the Bollywood beat. She first did item numbers in Telugu and Tamil films though before being noticed alongside Kareena Kapoor in the mujra number, Dil Mera Muft Ka, in the film, Agent Vinod. She was also cast in the hit, Rowdy Rathore, but Grand Masti, alongside the threesome, Aftab, Vivek and Riteish, is a different step towards stardom.
Swedish memories
As a teenager growing up in Sweden, I was mad about the dances in Hindi films. I used to imitate the moves and choreograph them to suit my style; Madhuri Dixit was my icon! Though it was hard to find gurus to teach me classical dance, I learnt Kathak, and revelled in the opportunity to express my emotions through this dance form. That’s when I decided to establish my dance school in Sweden, the Indisk Dans Studio, to create awareness about Bollywood dance. The venture was a huge success, which encouraged me to move to India.
From kuthu songs to mujra
I’d choreographed and performed in a number of music videos; but my first big break was the song, ‘Diyalo Diyala‘ from the Telugu movie, 100% Love, which led to my lead role debut in Telugu as well. But dancing alongside Kareena and Saif has been the absolute highlight of my career thus far!
Grand Masti times
This sequel to the original Masti will be a thousand times funnier. I play the role of a sexy teacher in the movie. Though I’ve been comfortable with my glam avatar so far, I do believe I can essay a simple, homely character perfectly well too if the opportunity comes along.
Sweden meets India:
There are a lot of differences between the fashion and film industries here. In Sweden, everyone is given the same amount of respect, irrespective of whether they are a leading actor or a set assistant. Also, a lot of hard work and patience are required to make it in this industry. It’s not all song and dance which you see on screen.
Looking ahead
I find so many actors in India super-talented as well as hot: Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Hrithik Roshan, Ranbir Kapoor, to name a few.
Off the camera
I love throwing house parties. Travel is something that excites me too. As for a boyfriend, well, I am seeing someone right now, but that’s all I wanna say now.