Aroona enjoys playing a bitchy saas

After playing the loving maa on TV for long, Aroona Irani is now enjoying being the bitchy saas

Your character Durga in Maayka is getting more and more negative...

I got a chance to play a negative character after a very long time. I'm really enjoying myself.

Does it remind you of your movie days?

Yes. I'm constantly reminded of all the bitching I'd do in the movies.

You never chose a vampish character for yourself in the serials you made...

Actually the channel would never agree. That's how I ended up doing positive roles. When I was finally offered Durga's role I said why not? I needed a break from my goodie-goodie roles.

Your make-up as Durga is quite over-the-top...

This character was played by somebody else earlier. She was given that typical 1960s kind of a look. Also, loud make-up. When I came in, we didn't want to shock the viewers by making it different. So I retained the look. I hadn't used kaajal for 15 years and here I was with heavy eye make-up. Initially I couldn't recognise myself! Of course gradually I have toned it down. I must say it's certainly not easy replacing somebody in a show. It's very difficult.

Your show Nagin is ready to be aired. Why did you choose this theme when family dramas are ruling the roost today?

I liked the concept and the channel approved of it. Family dramas may be popular, but people also watch Prithviraj Chauhan. I remember this show Mann Mein Hai Vishwaas was quite popular among audiences. People always have deep faith in religion, tradition and culture.

Your favourite actress Sangeeta Ghosh will not be acting in Nagin?

No. Sayantani will be playing the title role. Sangeeta could not do Nagin, but she is doing a cameo in Doli Saja Ke.