HELLO!: How do you feel about winning not one but two awards at our first Hall of Fame - South?
Dulquer Salmaan: “It’s fun to have won them both. I do put in some effort when it comes to style. I have a passion for fashion. So it’s nice to get that recognition.”
H!: Share some highlights of 2022 and what you most look forward to in 2023.
DS: “It’s been a great year for me. I had four good releases in different languages — Salute in Malayalam, Hey Sinamika in Tamil, Chup in Hindi, and Sita Ramam in Telugu. I received so much love for all of them. This year, I hope to keep surprising you guys. I have Guns & Gulaabs releasing this summer and a Malayalam action film later in 2023. I usually prefer not to talk about my work till it’s up for release.”
H!: Define your personal sense of style.
DS: “I’ve always taken style and what I wear seriously. I love clothes. I’m not into labels, but I’m particular about the fit. I have this belief that a lot of times, I find my character in my clothes. The audience notices what you wear, and there’s relatability in their eyes. I know when I flaunt my fashion, there’s a demography of youth who identify with it.”
H!: How do you feel about the kind of recognition South Indian personalities receive today?
DS: “There has been more exposure with new avenues today. The digital era and streaming platforms have opened up new possibilities. Everyone has started to explore cinema in India, and now, there’s a lot of relatability with southern cinema, too. I love that there’s no barrier anymore, something I wouldn’t have imagined when I was in school or college. It’s delightful.”
H!: Who are your favourite designers?
DS: “I go through phases when it comes to designers. My current favourite is Alexander McQueen. For my wedding, I flew to Mumbai to get my wardrobe from Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla. I also used to wear a lot of Arjun Khanna. These days, I wear a lot of Shantnu & Nikhil. I also keep telling my stylist to try something new. I like to surprise people.”
H!: What keeps you going every day?
DS: “My greatest source of joy is watching the joy I bring people. Like when they walk up to me when they spot me and ask for photos. It makes me happy that just taking a picture with me can make their day. It’s also intoxicating when you complete a year with great releases.”
This story has been adapted for the website from a story that was originally published in Hello! India’s February 2023 issue. Get your hands on the latest issue right here!
