Interview with Gowri Nadella

conducted by Misthi Mishra

I had the privilege of conducting a Google Doc interview with Gowri Nadella. Ms. Nadella is a young, upcoming model who had originally starred in The Head and The Heart’s music video “See You Through My Eyes”. Many people around the world are afraid or tedious to achieve their goals but Ms. Nadella is like no other!

Question 1: When did you start modeling and acting? What inspired you to become a model?

I started acting and ‘performing’ when I was a young child. I was such an expressive child and conveyed my creativity through artistic means. I come from a family of musicians and I developed a love for music, particularly singing, at a young age. That love eventually transpired into a passion for acting, musical theater, and when I was a little older, modeling. I would say I started my art at a young age but started seriously pursuing acting and modeling when I was 13 years old.

Question 2: You had been featured in The Head and The Heart’s music video “See You Through My Eyes”, how was that experience? How did it launch your career?

It is safe to say that the experience of working on that project will forever hold a special place in my heart. I grew so much during the days on set and was able to solidify my passion and drive for the arts. I always say this, but I truly mean it when I say that I have so much gratitude and love for the cast and crew of SYTME. See You Through My Eyes completely opened me up to the world of films and turned something I had always dreamed of into reality. That experience solidified my love of the arts, and having that clarity at such a young age is something I am so grateful for.

Question 3: Who has supported you the most throughout your career?

There are quite a few people who I have the utmost admiration and love for. The first being my mom. I can only imagine it’s not easy to help guide your child through an industry as complex as the entertainment industry, especially not having any prior experience, but regardless, my mom has always supported me with every fiber of her being. As a child, my parents knew I was creative and a forward-thinker, and let me fully grow into who I am. My mom and I are best friends and she has been more than integral to the development of who I am, both personally and work-wise.

In addition, my agents at AEFH have been so incredibly supportive and have allowed me to pursue what I love. I truly have so much respect and gratitude for them and they are such important people in my life. Their support means everything to me.

Question 4: As an Asian Woman, societal pressure is constantly placed on us, how have you been fighting the societal norm and raising awareness of these issues?

It makes me so overwhelmed with gratitude and joy to think that I could be a role model to young Asian girls who want to pursue a career in the arts and entertainment/fashion industries. I come from a very “normal” family and growing up, I never had role models I could look up to in media or TV who represented myself or my culture, and that was at times an isolating feeling. This past year, I have seen such a push for diverse and inclusive representation in the industry, and I feel so privileged to witness this first-hand. Raising awareness of the need for representation is something I definitely value, and have been trying to do more of. I know it can be nerve-racking to speak on these issues, and I am by no means perfect, but I have made a conscious effort to convey this message to those around me, and have learned that working towards this goal of championing diversity and inclusivity in our media is a journey, and I would love to play a positive role in that journey, no matter how big or small.

Question 5: How do you balance your modeling career, acting career, family life, and social life?

When I think of my life, I think of my family, my friends, school, as well as acting and modeling. While I may not be auditioning and working 24/7, the creativity and passion I have for the performing arts is always with me. I have, and will always carry, that same excitement and love for the arts even as if I was just beginning. When I’m not doing school, I am working. When I’m not working, I’m auditioning. When I’m not auditioning, I am with my family and friends. While on paper this may seem like a lot to balance, I feel so grateful to be in the position I am in and to be given the opportunity to pursue something I truly love. That feeling of passion and gratitude trumps all.

Question 6: Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to the young women out there, what would it be?

I would say that each of our unique upbringings, cultures, personalities, and dreams is what makes this world so special. We should never feel embarrassed for striving to do what some may think is unattainable. As a young child, I remember hearing this piece of advice and having it deeply resonate with me: “do not let anyone extinguish your individual spark or your desire to achieve your goals”. That is a piece of advice I hold close to my heart and would love to convey.

Question 7: Is there anything you’d like to say to our audience? And how can they find you on social media later?

I would like to thank everyone at The Asian Articles for giving me this incredible opportunity as well as everyone who is giving their time to read this collaboration!!

Regarding the second question, I frequently post updates about my life and work on my social media. I am most active on my Instagram, @gowrinadella

You can find Gowri in The Head and The Heart’s music video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwxm3Bu9Gyc