Apoorva, marriage are top priorities

Shilpa Saklani was taking things easy after the generation leap happened in Kyunki…She was enjoying her well deserved break since hubby Apoorva too was on holiday after his serial Jassi wound up. But now she is back to work and apart from already anchoring a talent hunt show, she is set to take on a another one too and will be back to being a prominent character in Kyunki... The actress talks about her career and how satisfied she is with the way things are turning out for her.

Q How was the experience of hosting Mera Star Super Star since it was your first anchoring job?
I was very raw at anchoring when I took up the job. Having never hosted a show or even an award function, I was aware of my limitations. But I did a satisfactory job. I think, in a way, acting does prepare you to be a decent anchor, if not an excellent one. Also one's confidence and command over language plays a major role. I had a good time and carried myself pretty well through the show.

QWhat made you agree to anchor Fame X suddenly?
Mera Star was made by Endemol which is also making Fame X. In fact, they had offered me the show before it came on air but things didn't work out at that time. When Sophie left Fame X they requested me to take over. I couldn't refuse them because of the working relationship I have developed with Endemol. Besides, Mera Star was also winding up. I am glad that I agreed to host Fame X because it's a very exciting show.

QWhat's your take on talent hunts and reality based shows?
These shows bring too much pressure with them. I had done Nach Baliye and remember the pressure I went through. That's why I can empathise with the contestants of Fame X. They need someone to boost their morale and encourage them. As an anchor my job is to interact and encourage them. If I pat their backs and put a hand around their shoulders it goes a long way in boosting their confidence. My job is to give them positive vibes.

QWhat do you think about the Fame X contestants? Are they really talented and do they have that extra X factor in them?
I wasn't too impressed with them initially. Not that they are not good singers, but they have to show the X factor, which requires them to perform while singing. However, with lot of practice they have all improved a lot.

QYou have been off acting for the last six months. Are you looking at getting back to it once Fame X winds up in another six weeks?
Not really. My finances are in good shape at the moment. I am not looking at doing too much work because my priorities are my marriage, my husband and his needs. I like to be at home when he comes back after work. It might sound odd or too traditional for a modern girl to talk like this but that's the way I am. That's why I am not looking at doing a daily soap. But I am definitely talking to people for roles that do not require me to work 25 days in a month.

QWhat about Kyunki? When are you going to be back in the show?
I was supposed to come back some time ago and they have also been asking me to return. I have been part of the show for four and half years and I can't say no to the show. I should be back in Kyunki very soon.