Yogesh Mishra | yogesh@bollywoodtown.in
Vartika Singh is a former Femina Miss India, who represented India in the Miss Universe pageant. She just made her acting debut in the Emraan Hashmi starrer Haq, where both critics and viewers praised her performance as Saira. In this exclusive interview with Yogesh Mishra, she spoke about her journey from Miss India to a Bollywood actress so far, her working experience with Emraan Hashmi, her dream destination, future projects, and more.
From Femina Miss India to Bollywood actress, how has the journey been so far?
It has been slow, surprising and very real. I didn’t plan anything in a straight line. After Miss India, life opened a lot of doors, but I also took time to understand what I truly wanted. Acting wasn’t a rushed decision. When I finally stepped into it, I felt like I was starting from zero again, which was humbling but also grounding. Every step has taught me something about myself.
How did you get on board with the film Haq?
I actually auditioned for Haq like everyone else. There were multiple rounds, and each round made me feel a little closer to Saira. After that, I met the director, and something just clicked. He later told me, “the minute you walked in, you were Saira,” and that really stayed with me. I wanted this role because I connected with her so deeply. Even during the look test, till the very last moment, I kept hoping it would work out. And it finally did. It wasn’t overnight; it was a process, but a very fulfilling one.
How was your working experience with Emraan Hashmi in Haq?
He is extremely easy to work with. He creates a calm space around him, which helps a newcomer a lot. There is no intimidation, no loud energy. He listens, he reacts and he lets the scene breathe. That makes you feel present and steady. I learned a lot just by observing him.
When did you first realise you should try acting, and how easy or tough was the entry into films?
I realised it when I felt ready to express myself in a deeper way. Acting gives you that space. Getting in wasn’t easy at all. I wasn’t from the industry, so everything took more time. You send tapes, you meet people, you wait, you learn patience. But each “no” also made me clearer about the kind of work I wanted to do.
What were your turning points in your professional life?
Winning Miss India was one. It changed the direction of my life. Doing Haq is another. It made me feel like I was finally doing something that was truly mine. And honestly, all the slow phases in between were turning points too, because they taught me how to hold myself together and not get carried away.
What is your dream destination?
I’m drawn to places that feel peaceful and natural. I really want to explore more of South India, especially Kerala. And Norway is on my list because I want to see the Northern Lights at least once in my life. I also love Thailand in general; it’s a place that instantly lifts my mood.
What attracts you more — money, beauty or intelligence?
Intelligence. Not the bookish kind, but emotional intelligence. Someone who understands people, situations and themselves. That feels real and lasting.
Which three qualities about yourself do you find most appealing?
I think I’m patient. I’m grounded. And I’m very honest with myself, even when it’s uncomfortable.
If you had to change your industry, what would you choose?
I would probably go back to something related to health or planning, because that’s what I studied. Or maybe build something of my own, like my superfood startup. I like creating things from scratch.
What are your upcoming projects?
I’ve just finished Haq, so I want to be very mindful about my next steps. I am reading a few scripts, but I will choose something only when I feel a genuine connection with it.
Any message for the readers of Bollywood Town magazine?
Thank you for giving new voices a space. And thank you for reading about my journey. I hope you all watch Haq and see Saira for who she is. She’s very close to my heart.
