SAUMYA TANDON WHO portrayed the character of Kareena Kapoor Khan’s sister in Imtiaz Ali’s Jab We Met in 2007, believes she is a ‘thinking actor.’ For the Mumbaibased actor, content is more important than a big banner. The mother of a sevenmonth-old talks about her character Anita in the popular TV series Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hai!, which has crossed 1,000 episodes, her desire to act in good cinema and more. Excerpts:
The show crossed 1,000 episodes. How do you feel being part of the show?
Honestly, I never wanted to be a part of a long-running daily soap but my character Anita got me into it. Also, Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hai is very different from other shows. The direction is smart, the script is so different and I would also like to congratulate the viewers for supporting such content despite the dominance of the digital platform.
What is it about the show that you think is working against the tide of digital content?
It’s a show that has something for everyone. Kids, adults and even elders like watching it and that’s the beauty of the show. The tale is simple with interesting characters. It provides a big relief from the stress that one undergoes the entire day. Also, it appeals to all strata of society.
How has your character evolved over the years?
The character wasn’t etched out properly at the beginning (in 2015) but I am lucky that under good direction and writing, the character has evolved. Anita is a spontaneous character in the TV series. She is an independent woman, who is dominating, but remains endearing and not negative.
How much do you identify with the character?
I am a strong and independent woman just like her and fashionable too. I am romantic but to a lesser degree. I don’t demand that my husband dances for me! After a hiatus of seven months, you were back on the sets and all in good shape.
Did you undergo intense training after your pregnancy?
I am not into intense workouts and believe in consistency. Also, I don’t believe in dieting but eating ealthy. So I did my regular walking and surya namaskars and worked on my core strength after pregnancy.
How much has motherhood changed you as a person?
It’s been a very challenging journey and I salute young mothers who balance both home and office. I am privileged that I have a nanny and I have people to take care of my baby and also to help me during this tough period. But many women don’t get these privileges. I would urge men to support their wives during this phase. As a person, I guess I have become more efficient and can multitask now.
What kind of roles are you looking for in the future?
I consider myself to be a ‘thinking actor’ so for me, the content has to be meaningful. Acting is an art. If I talk about my choices earlier they have all been consciously thought out, whether it was in Jab We Met or Dance India Dance. I would love to be a part of good cinema. The new crop of directors are bringing fresh content to the table and that interests me more than a big banner project.