You may not recognise her face but that’s because Chinmayi Sripada’s voice is the star. The dubbing artist chats with Rohit Pramar about a career as a voice actor
Award winning voice actor Chinmayi Sripada started dubbing by luck. We caught up with her to talk about a career as a dubbing artist and her upcoming film Ekk Deewana Tha, where she dubs for Amy Jackson.
How did you become a dubbing artist?
I had never thought of it until I was approached by the makers of the Tamil film Sillunu Oru Kaadhal. I was a little apprehensive because I can’t laugh or cry on demand. In Tamil films, you must sound bubbly and girly. I don’t have a typical sing-song girlie voice. They, however, liked my voice and A. R. Rahman felt that it could be molded. So, that’s how it happened. I am thankful to A. R. Rahman for it.
Do you get paid well?
Initially, you don’t. But with experience, the pay gets better. I got paid `15,000 for my first film.
You’re also a playback singer. Does it make it easier for you to dub if you’re a singer?
I really don’t know. In fact, I often get told not to sound like a professional singer while dubbing. The directors just want you to sound natural.
Voice acting is said to be a gateway to acting. Do you agree?
Acting and dubbing are two completely different things. As an actor, you’ve got to look pretty and confident. As a dubbing artist, you just have to sound nice. Looks are not an issue! However, I don’t know any voice actors who have managed to become actors.
How important is a flair for language in dubbing?
It is important. For example, if Amy Jackson was playing an English girl in Ekk Deewana Tha then she wouldn’t have needed anyone to dub for her. So, it is important that you have basic knowledge about a language.
How was your experience of dubbing for Amy Jackson?
It was great. She made my job easier as she got her lip-syncing correct. I really enjoyed working on the movie.
Any future projects in Bollywood?
Currently, there’s a lot happening for me in Tamil and Telugu. As for Bollywood, I’ve just recorded a couple of tunes with A. R. Rahman. So, let’s see how things go. I am also hoping to get more songs in Bollywood.