PROFILE


Name: Sophia Choudhry, later changed to Sophie

Birthday: 8th February

Born in: The United Kingdom, grew up in London.

Height: 5'6"

Shoe size: 37 and a half.

Studied: European Politics and French at The London School of Economics, London.

Professional Spectrum: As a teenager, Indi-pop icon Biddu recognized her talent and launched her musical career. Sophie did back-up vocals for Alisha Chinai and Shweta Shetty. Also, she had been a VJ for Zee Europe when she was in the UK, and later expanded her career as a musician with the girl band Sansara.

One Secret: She's somewhat of a linguist. Sophie speaks French, Italian, Urdu, English and can sing in Spanish and Arabic.


Tete-a-tete with your VJ


Mtvindia.com spoke to VJ Sophie and got to know a lot more about the gorgeous singer…

When did your interest in music begin?

As a child, I was completely mesmerized by Bollywood. You could say I was bitten by desi bug. I was a huge fan of Nazia Hasan, I think my interest in music grew from there. Then Biddu discovered me, launched my career in music, and the rest is history.

How did you become a VJ with MTV?

I was actually spotted in the U.K. I used to be a VJ on Zee Europe. When I was with Sansara, MTV offered me a job. At the time, I said no. Then I came to India as a celebrity singer on the VJ Hunt. A couple of people like ex-VJ Nafisa Joseph nagged me to audition then. Finally, I gave in. I was the last person to audition in Mumbai, and I got in! I think that was quite a twist of fate.

How many Bollywood films have you worked on?

Shaadi No. 1 was my debut film. And that was the most fun I've ever had. I remember we were shooting a song in Naples, and Zayed (Khan) and Fardeen (Khan) told everyone that my name was Sophia, and all the locals thought I was Sophia Loren! Then I've done Speed and Pyaar ke Side Effects.

So what would you prefer, MTV glory or Bollywood fame?

Let's just say I've enjoyed the MTV glory and now I want some Bollywood fame!

Who matters the most to you in your life?

My mom. She's my best friend. She's my driving force, my strength! I'm a very family person, actually. I live with my mom and grandmom.

Do you believe in God?

Yeah but I don't believe in rituals. I believe that there is an almighty and everyone has different routes to get there. I've been born a Muslim, but we are hugely into Buddha.

What social causes get your attention?

I am actively involved in the education of kids. I think it's really important to care for kids. There's an organization called 'Ehsaas' in Lucknow that works for the education and safety of kids. Other than that - anything to do with female harassment and abuse.

Your description of the perfect partner…

I'm not into perfection. Somebody who can have a good laugh, is positive, intelligent, well-bred, well traveled and fun to hang out with is what I look for. Oh and yes, someone who has rhythm. He's got to be able to move decently on the dance floor!!

Are you a workout enthusiast? What is your exercise routine like?

I am a trained Bharat Natyam and Kathak dancer. I've also trained in hard core Salsa. I switched from Yoga to Salsa and that is my exercise routine now. Plus it's what I love doing! I go to Zarein Watson, she's the torture master, it's all about the pain! I find working out boring, but she keeps it interesting, Pilates, cardio, core training, weights - she does it all!

How good are you in the kitchen?

I'm very good in the kitchen! I cook great pastas, and the best French crepes!

Ultimate fashion statement?

Accessories win hands down. I invest in a good pair of shoes quite often. I think it's what completes a wardrobe! I'm like Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City, in that sense! Everyone says so too.


VJ QUICKIE


Siblings: An older brother

Book that most inspired her: Richard Branson's 'Loosing my virginity' and Paulo Coelho's 'The Alchemist'.

Food: Thai and Japanese food. Loves desi khana too. North Indian food is the best, nothing like great kebabs, she says.

Movie star: Shahrukh Khan, Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Rani Mukherjee

Cartoon character: Tom & Jerry!

Book: She has a signed copy of Sophia Lauren's autobiography.

Author: Gabrielle Garcia Marquez

Holiday destination: Would love to explore South America, follow the beach scene, party all night!

Music: Digs Justin Timberlake. Loves his style and thinks he's the complete package! Also loves The Black Eyed Peas for their production style and the music they create.

TV shows: Loves watching Tom & Jerry!

Ultimate Aphrodisiac: Good music! Sophie loves R & B and anything Latino.