She may be playing a grandmother in 'Balika Vadhu', but in real life,
Smita Bansal is a far cry from her onscreen image.
How is Smita Bansal in real life? Is she a strong independent woman or a coy, demure woman like her character in "
Balika Vadhu"?
I think I am a blend of both the personalities. I change my approach as per situations. Professionally, I am very strong and independent in the way I select my projects or the way I mould my routine. But when it comes to my individual self, I certainly do ask for support and advice from my husband. But I can proudly say one thing – I am a very dedicated bahu. You can ask my in-laws.
How did acting happen to you?
I had come to Mumbai in early 90's on a vacation. Since it was a month long vacation, I decided to join acting classes just for personality development. I thought it would be good fun. But while I was taking the class, I started getting acting offers. That's when I contemplated taking it up as a career.
How did your family take to your decision of doing television? Were they apprehensive or supportive?
Initially my parents were a bit hesitant because actors, especially television actors, were not looked upon with great respect at that time. I mean the profession as such was not very famous at that time. But my father eventually realised that my interest in acting was deep and hence gave me a chance to go ahead with my decision. At the same time he told me that if things didn't work out, I'll have to leave all of it and concentrate on my medical exams. But I guess I was meant to stay!
How did you land your first offer?
When I got to know about Balaji Telefilms conducting auditions for this new serial, I got very excited as Jeetuji (Jitendra) himself was coming to take auditions. I am a very big fan of his, so I just went there to meet him. Frankly I was more excited to meet Jeetuji than getting selected for the lead role.
After the hugely successful "Amanat", you took a long break, even though you were at the peak of your career. Ever regret that decision?
Never as during that time I had my daughter, and she is the most beautiful thing to have ever happened to me. I could not have asked for more. Those 3-4 years which I spent with her are the most memorable and beautiful years of my life. I think it was a very good and productive decision for me and my daughter.
What made you chose "Balika Vadhu" as your comeback on television? Weren't you apprehensive to play a mother's role?
I did not chose "Balika Vadhu", the serial chose me. Also, all the actresses of my time were playing mothers to 20 or 25 years olds. For me, I could not have asked for a better comeback, as I was playing a mother to an 11-year-old, and my look was amazing. The set-up and script was extremely fresh.
Do you relate to your character – Sumitra in "Balika Vadhu"? The ghoongat clad bahu?
The only similarity between Sumitra and Smita is that they will do anything for their families' happiness. Apart from that there is no similarity at all. I have a very western taste when it comes to dressing. Ask my mom-in-law, how I dress at home (laughs).
The serial has undergone a generation leap, but your look hasn't changed much. Do you think the audience will accept you as a nani?
I think I have been accepted pretty well. The outfits that they have designed for me as a nani are amazing. Also, I am a young nani as I got married at the age of 10 in the show. Keeping that in mind, my character hasn't aged much, because technically I am a young nani.
You are also doing theatre. Will it be movies next?
Not really. I am a hardcore telly loyalist. Also I am the kind of person who has never ever planned anything is life. So, I think I will let life take it's own course.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/tv-/The-serial-chose-me-Smita/articleshow/6620222.cms#ixzz10Tvuh3wi
Ye Hai Mohabbatein
Mangal Lakshmi
