Glam gang

A ROLLER-SKATING National player. A Bharatnatyam exponent who runs a travel agency. A gold medallist in MBA. A 'C' certificate holder of NCC. A chartered accountant. An MBA dropout!

That was before they all changed their vocations and decided to become 'stars-in-the-making' on the idiot box.

And, with Sony Entertainment Television (SET) launching two new serials in the afternoon slot, couch potatoes can behold new faces essaying roles in the evolution of relationships about sibling bonding that will warm the cockles of viewers' hearts in 'Risshton Ki Dor'. Commenting on the launch of the other new show, SET India COO NP Singh remarks, "With 'Kabhi To Nazar Milao', SET brings a poignant story of an endearing blind girl and her determination to succeed."

The wannabe small-screen stars were in town to promote the two new serials.

Shital Thakkar, Gaurav Chanana, Sampada Vaze and Urvashi Dholakia enact characters in 'Risshton…' Shital, with a degree in hotel management under her belt, had her first brush with TV courtesy Mahesh Bhatt's 'Swabhimaan', aired on DD. That was seven years ago. With passage of time, she has been seen in 'Aurat', 'Parivartan', 'Yeh Meri Life Hai' and 'Kittu Sab Janti Hai'. Shital is of the opinion that a good story, concept and presentation are the right ingredients for a soap opera to go down well with the masses.

"Moving with the times is the mantra of the day," the danseuse asserts. Ask her about her plans and she is ready with an answer: "I am game for any role that's challenging and hope to be doing some films by next year. I look forward to scripting and going behind the camera in the future. Besides, I harbour a strong desire to open a resort."

Sampada, an MBA gold medallist, is also into animal welfare and charity. She made her debut with 'Pyaar Ki Kashti Mein'. For her, "There's no difference between the big screen and TV since both have a charm of their own." One who has cut a video with Shaan ('Aksar'), is into reading but admits nonchalantly that she cannot cook, Sampada wants to stay put for five years before making her next move.

Gaurav, a chartered accountant by profession, shot into limelight with 'Yahi To Hai Woh' in a double role. For him, "Love is of utmost importance in life." For this artiste, "I sign on the dotted line only if the role holds good." Exuding oodles of confidence, Gaurav feels fulfilling his parents' dreams is his life's ambition.

Mama's boy (in the serial 'Kabhi…') Gagan Arya quit MBA when the acting bugs starting itching him. 'Family Business', 'Special Squad' and 'Shararat' are some of the serials mentioned in his CV. The introvert in him isn't a bar to portray a totally opposite character. When quizzed as to how he would like to settle down in life, his prompt reply: "Marriage, 2 kids, 2 wives!"

Arts grad Sudeepa lays stress on discipline in life. The emotional and NCC 'C' certificate holder thinks that people connect with the TV stars as they watch them for a long period of time. For this svelte beauty, "Life is very beautiful. Enjoy it and learn to respect elders."