I don't support mercy killing - Smriti

Smriti Iraani speaks out on the controversial mercy killing scene from the Ekta Kapoor soap opera.

Months after the euthanasia (mercy killing) scene was shown on TV, protests against the serial Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi still continue.

The protesters believe it's a wrong message sent out to audiences. So, what does actor-politician Smriti Iraani, who played the character Tulsi responsible for mercy-killing in the show have to say? We grill her

What's your reaction to the protests?

They've got nothing to do with me as an actor. It's an issue to do with the production house and the channel. They make the creative decisions.

Did you voice your concern about the euthanasia scene while it was being conceived?

I did say what I felt at that point. I put up my questions. I said I'm not comfortable with the scene. But, as an actor, I couldn't back off. I would have been labelled unprofessional.

With the continuing protests now and more so because you are a political figure, do you feel you should have been more assertive then?

I can be assertive for all I want. But, at the end of the day, Ekta (producer Ekta Kapoor) is the boss. You can't get bigger than her. How can anybody?

Have you discussed the issue with her now?

When Ekta takes a decision, there is no discussion. I am part of the team that carries out the decision.
What do you think about euthanasia?

I personally don't support euthanasia. If your family member is in need, you think of all remedies and solutions possible to help. My grandmother was bedridden and we all looked after her.

How difficult is it for an actor to portray something you are not convinced about?

You have to be practical and be aware of the reality. As part of a team that makes a serial, I have to go along with the creative decisions made.

You are now also a producer of shows. Are you very careful about the content?

I always am. It's not about being careful, but about your belief. The theatre shows that I produce have a social message. We mix entertainment and well-meaning messages. That is my take. What is my decision need not necessarily be Ekta's.

So, between Ekta and you, who do you think knows the pulse of the audience?

She has the TRPs. In theatre, I have the box office! (laughs).