By Tanishka Juneja
Moroccan-French model Soundous Moufakir who recently grabbed so many headlines for her news of entering into Khatron Ke Khiladi 13, emerged as the winner of Splitsvilla 14 earlier this year. Doing such a big show in just one year after coming to India along with doing two reality shows and winning one of those speaks volumes about her unwavering dedication and hard work.
Recently, her Arabic song ‘Habibi’ released under the banner of Zee Music Studios and apart from the hot dessert and its foot tapping tunes, it’s Soundous in a flowy dress who’s the highlight of the song. The reality show star can be seen doing some deadly belly dance moves.
In this exclusive conversation, the Moroccan-French beauty opened up about being a newcomer in India, doing reality shows, Khatron ke Khiladi 13, learning Hindi and much more…
You’ve been a part of various reality shows and even emerged as the winner of MTV Splitsvilla 14 earlier this year. While there is a speciality of doing such shows that you make friends for life, as you quoted in one of your interviews, what the audience often wonders is how real are these reality shows?
Both Roadies and Splitvilla came as a blessing in my life and currently I am working wholeheartedly at Khatron Ke Khiladi. I gotta clarify one thing, that these shows are far from scripted. For censored television viewing, sure there are some do’s and don’ts but each contestant has complete autonomy over their actions and performance. These platforms offer us the freedom to express ourselves to the fullest, allowing us to make decisions on our own accord. Not just the experience, even the friendships, problems and interactions are all just as real.
How challenging was it to find your feet as a newcomer in a country like India?
In all honesty and zero exaggeration, it was an exhilarating experience. Sure, there were several challenges, but life would only be boring otherwise. Coming to a country full of culture, in a city that never sleeps and an industry that never stops, I was terrified. But I guess along the way I found people that make it worth it. My team, my colleagues, my friends, they don’t just support me, they motivate me, pushing me to do what is right for my career.
You’re undoubtedly one of the most fashionable celebrities in our industry. How would you describe your style?
I hope that I embody a versatile approach to my artistry to my audience. I deliberately avoid confining my style. I consider fashion as a form of art. Something that reflects my personality, beliefs and emotions.
On the other side of the coin, there are a lot of people who have an opinion that contestants on shows like Roadies and Splitsvilla shouldn’t be treated like celebrities or famous personalities. What’s your take on that?
Sure, the loyal fans celebrities have garnered through their art might feel protective of the love they receive. But it’s simple logic, the fame reality television celebrities receive is directly from the audience they have built as well. The projects, campaigns, and opportunities we grasp is all because of our popularity among our audiences. At the end of the day, we are just doing our job, like the next person.
You’re all set to impress the audience with your performance all over again in Khatron Ke Khiladi 13. It’s rare for people to get a chance to participate in this action reality show right after doing Roadies & Splitsvilla but you’ve earned it. So, is there an added pressure to perform well in KKK?
As an artist, I gotta say being a part of Khatron Ke Khiladi is no joke. I mean, it’s my first year in India and I’ve only done two reality shows before this. Talking about pressure, right? With all those eyes glued to the screen and everyone expecting big things from me, it definitely adds some weight on my shoulders. But you know what? I live by this one mantra: I ain’t here to prove anything to anyone but myself. My main goal is to give it my all and rock every challenge that comes my way. So, bring it on!
You also had to learn Hindi in order to interact with your co-contestants on KKK as well as relate to the Hindi-speaking audience. The show in itself is meant to test your limits, but when it comes to language – which has no direct connection with the stunts on the show, how challenging was that for you?
Man, let me tell you, language has been a real tough nut to crack for me as an artist. It’s been a constant struggle, and honestly, it’s still a big hurdle for me. Shows like Splitsvilla and Roadies gave me a bit of leeway to use English, but when it comes to Khatron Ke Khiladi, it’s a whole different ball game. That show is family-first, with a diverse audience. Plus, it’s hosted by the one and only Rohit Shetty sir. So, if I want to leave a lasting impression, I need to be open to exploring and learning each day.
Lastly, what will give you a sense of fulfilment in your professional life?
I don’t want to be an ant. I want to leave a legacy, at least some impact over my audience with my art. I ensure I put my heart and soul into every single thing I do, making sure to dot all the i’s and cross all the t’s. The progress I’ve made so far is a testament to my unwavering dedication and hard work at just contributing towards entertaining my audiences. It seriously feels amazing to see how far I’ve come on this professional rollercoaster. Currently, I’m looking forward to showcasing my potential and talents on the big screen with my upcoming work!
