Mona Singh - Nothing comes easy in Mumbai.

What got you to Mumbai?

Mumbai has always been a dream city for me. After my Dad retired from the army, we lived in Pune. Whenever I used to visit Bombay, I always felt that I belonged here. When I used to come for my auditions here, my passion to succeed was spruced with the huge hoardings of film stars. I started dreaming big and aimed to be on these hoardings someday.

The lessons you learnt while struggling to make it big in Mumbai.

Traveling in Mumbai made be pretty street smart. I learnt that you need momentum in your life besides being hard working. Also that nothing comes easy in Mumbai.

Best thing about the city?

The people. You get to meet so many different cultures. Everybody’s dream is one and everyone strenuously works towards it. The adrenaline is pumping within everyone in high doses. We are all striving to fulfill our dreams and ambitions.

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What you hate most about the city?

I hate the artificial people who are in the garb of ‘being good friends’. I have been through a lot of backlash and fortunately don’t get affected by it any longer.

Being in Mumbai, what are your learnings in dealing with people?

I have learnt to pamper myself and not get into the politics of the city. I don’t believe in massaging egos and have learnt to be diplomatic and not be frank about my feelings. 

One thing you’d like to change about Mumbai

I like the city the way it is. The traffic, the people, and the potholes – they continue to inspire me.

A historical monument in Mumbai that you like the most. Why?

The Gateway of India gives me an inner peace and happiness. When I didn’t have money during my struggling days, I used to just sit there hoping to be famous one day with lots of money to splurge. That’s one spot I go back to rekindle my memories.

What qualities do you need to be successful in Mumbai?

You got to believe in yourself. A friend once commented, ‘Success is a fart and you can only tolerate yours’. That accentuates your undying faith and belief in yourself (laughs).