aparna back!

Geetanjali played the sinister Apo*na on Kasautii Zindagi Kay, and made life a living hell for her adversaries on the show.

Kasautii lovers will recall that Tikekaar had walked out of the show in October last year, over her refusal to be part of the generation leap due on the serial.

After months of reticence, the reclusive actress tells hitList about her future plans.

Staying away from the limelight

It hasn't been that long a break. After Kasautii, I was doing Hum Do Hain Na on Sony. But people still remember me as Apo*na from Kasautii. I had several issues that needed dealing with, and also had major surgery — a rod was inserted into my right hand.

I hurt myself when I was jogging, tripped and fell on my hand. I have also changed the way I spell my last name (my father doesn't like it, though).

Leaving Kasautii Zindagi Kay

I can proudly say that my character was the first to undergo a makeover on television. Even before Jassi happened, Apo*na changed from sarees to formal suits. Everyone reacted quite strongly to that transformation.

As far as my leaving the show goes, I didn't want to play an older woman. Also I didn't think Apo*na could get more evil than she already was. The shock value wasn't there any more.

Her new show

I have signed on a new, untitled serial for Sony. I play a whimsical, over-possessive wife, who can go to any extent to get her husband's attention. I was also offered the Zee show Palkhi, but things didn't work out. I am really excited about this new show, since the character is quite challenging. I am currently working on my look for the show.

Her special friend

I wouldn't want to name him, but yes, there is a very close friend of mine who stays abroad. Right now, we are just good pals; we enjoy talking to each other and meeting up whenever possible. I think it could turn out to be more than companionship in the future.

tushar.joshi@mid-day.com