Video: “Nadeem Baig is my favorite director,” says Yehali Tashiya Kalidasa

Yehali Tashiya Kalidasa is a 17-year-old Sri Lankan girl who got cast in one of the biggest TV projects to come out of Pakistan in recent times. She is playing Nathmy Perera in Sinf-e-Aahan along with other powerhouse performers.

She is essaying the role of a Sri Lankan cadet who has come to train in Pakistan alongside other female cadets. Speaking to Hassan Choudary of Something Haute, Yehali spoke about how she got the role, her experience in Pakistan, her equation with co actors, love of biryani and her 18th birthday among many other things.

Hassan Choudary and Yehali Tashiya Kalidasa

“Pakistani people are very hospitable,” she expressed, adding that it is probably in their blood. “It was a very good experience, everyone is very supportive. She also shared that she loves Pakistani food, especially biryani.”

Despite the language barrier, she said that she’s a quick learner. “Urdu is kind of difficult, but somehow I managed to do it. I did it,” she joyfully said, adding that everyone around was very helpful.

Yehali also shared her favorite Urdu phrases expressing that Dananeer was the one colleague she had a lot of fun with.  She also taught her Urdu swear words and teased her the most.

“Nadeem Baig is my favorite director,” she said. Among all the directors she has worked with so far, she feels that he has been the most supportive. Yehali also shared that she has become great friends with Sajal Aly and Dananeer among all the other talented actors she had the chance to work with.

Watch the complete interview here: