Q&A

What would you be if you were not an actress?

My father used to say I should join the police force. My observation was so strong that nobody could get away with his or her wrong doings. Alternatively, I could have been a lawyer because I am very rational.

Do you have any secret to share?

I am a complete health-freak. I am into aerobics. Unfortunately, I was advised by my doctor not to exercise for sometime after my recent appendicitis operation. That is why I feel a little frustrated.

Do you enjoy watching movies?

About 10 years back I first watched Umrao Jaan. I got so carried away with the theme of the movie and of course extremely touched by Rekha's acting, that I watched the movie about a dozen times. The other films that moved me immensely were Ek duje ke liye, Roja, Dead Man Walking, Baghban and Khamoshi. I cannot single out only one best movie because I was moved by many films.

Dream role

I have acted in many memorable roles in the 15 long years of my acting career. However, I would like to act in a role with more depth and maturity.

What is your real self?

I am basically very restless and opinionated. All my family members and friends tell me that I am a gourmet and a very good mother.

First love

It was while I was a still school goer. It was love at first sight. I fell for a guy who resembled Indian film star Jackie Shroff. I remember how I craved for Jackie's posters and hung it all over on the wall. I never realised that everybody knew what is going on my mind. However, I soon got over my infatuation.

Interesting experience

About 12 years back I acted in a TV play Janmabhumi written by Amjad Hossain. My role was of a rural girl named Bijli, which turned out to be an extremely popular character. It was a humorous role, which was pretty unusual for an actress. Usually, a character impresses the audience belonging to a specific class. But, this character was popular among people from all walks of life. When I used to go for shooting in the rural areas, a huge crowd would gather at the spot to get a closer look and enjoy my performance. The security guards had to be on the vigil to maintain order. It is nice to know that people still recognise me by that character.

If you were told to quit acting what would you do?

If there is any valid reason behind this, I would readily accept the demand. But as you know acting is like a part of my body; it would be extremely unfortunate for me to leave acting for good.