Durban grandmother bags Diana role
The movie Diana, starring Naomi Watts as the Princess of Wales, has received mixed reviews since being released a few weeks back.
The film tells the story of the Princess’s final rite of passage during the last two years of her life: a secret love affair with Pakistani heart surgeon Hasnat Khan (played by TV star Naveen Andrews).
The role of Khan’s grandmother, Nani Appa, is played by east coast pensioner Kasthuri Singh. East Coast Radio caught up with the 76-year-old Isipingo Hills resident, whose previous acting experience comprised of small roles in advertisements.
How did you get into the movie?
My agency had sent my picture to the directors and producers, and, perhaps from many others, they chose my picture. Then I was notified by my agency that I have been chosen to take the part with Naomi Watts and to be the granny of Dr Hasnat Khan.
Tell us about the role
Well, I played the role of his Nani Appa - which means granny - and I was introduced to Diana when she came to Pakistan to meet the family. I was supposed to say a line, which was in English, and I had to say it in Urdu. Translated into English, it means that Diana looked so stunning and so good; she was like a young lioness.
Did you relate to the character that you played in the movie?
Yes, yes, yes! And I think it's very clear in the movie also how I was introduced, and how I said my part. I looked at her, very lovingly, I said, you know you look like a young lioness, and then we shake hands. I think each of the characters played their parts very, very well. I felt both very sad and I felt very happy seeing Naomi playing the part of Diana.
What was it like working with Naomi Watts?
Oh it was great! It was wonderful! She is such a wonderful person, being such a great actress, well known, but she was humble, she was kind, she was friendly and we became very friendly while waiting for the next scene. I think I was honoured to take part with her. I think that it's something that I will treasure.
Check out the trailer for Diana below: