Ballito’s rising star makes the big screen

It was a flurry of excitement as a young movie star was celebrated at the premier screening of 3 Days to Go at Nu Metro Ballito Junction last Friday evening.

Aarya Patel, daughter of local doctor, Dr Dinesh Patel, made her debut big screen appearance in the proudly South African family focused film as “little Janet”.

3 Days To Go tells the story of adult siblings who, after the sudden death of their father, are forced to return to their childhood home – with a variety of partners, children and issues in tow.

They need to survive three days in each other’s company, under one roof, before they spread their father’s ashes and part ways.

The stellar cast boast South African favourites including Leeanda Reddy, Bollywood’s Lillette Dubey, Jailoshini Naidoo and Kajal Bagwandeen who is Aarya’s aunt and suggested she try for the part.

The sweet nine-year-old said being in the movie was an “awesome experience’.

“I had a small role which was shot at Umhlanga Beach, but I loved it and I would really like to be an actor now,” said Aarya who is a grade four Ashton pupil.

While her scene was short, it was quite difficult and tested her perseverance. “It was a difficult scene because I had to be “saved” from the sea and we did so many takes. I was freezing by the end and so tired, but I loved it.”

She said seeing herself on the big screen for the first time was a crazy experience.

“It was very emotional and super exciting at the same time. I was overwhelmed!” Beaming with pride, her parents said they were overjoyed when they saw their daughter in the film.

“I always wanted to be an actor. Seeing Aarya in the movie was my proudest moment. I had tears of joy,” said Dr Patel.

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