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"I am not very ambitious in life" -Reena Kapoor |
Rani, as she known to people feels very proud when people come to her and say that she is the inspiration to the younger generation. For this she is thankful to Rajshri Production who has given her this recognition. Reena Kapoor who is basically a Delhiete liked the Mumbai lifestyle so much that she has settled in Mumbai since 6-7 years. For Kapoor acting happened by chance. She had accompanied a friend for an audition with director Lekh Tandon and got chosen instead. . Then she did Dishayien, Jai Ganga Maiya for DD, a small role for Dekho Magar Pyar Se and got lead role in Saira Banoji's Kisse Apna Kahein. But presently she is enjoying the role of Rani in Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki.
It has a TRP of 3.2 in the 9 p.m. slot, beating Kksum on Sony and Astitva on Zee. Kapoor who is thrilled with the way things have shaped out says she thanks her stars for this lucky break. " Today I am busy and can afford to choose the work that is coming my way. It feels good to be recognised but I won't say that it has changed me as a person in any way."
Tell us something about yourself.
I am basically from Delhi. We are 3 sisters and a brother. We have travelled all over India as my dad is in the Navy. But just 6-7years back I have settled in Mumbai. I wanted to prove myself on my own. My family gave me good support for this.
Have you taken any acting course before joining this industry?
No Never, I haven't learnt acting from any acting school but I have learnt from my experiences being in this field. My first Experience was this telefilm called Laveena. For me acting happened by chance. I had accompanied a friend for an audition with director Lekh Tandon and got chosen instead. I was in school when I got my first acting offer. Lekhji thought I suited the role and had screen presence.
Carry on..
Then I also did a serial for DD called Dishayien. I also did a mythological serial called 'Jai Ganga Maiya' for DD, the rerun of the same you can see on Star Plus. I also did 'Devi' which I think was the biggest mistake I ever made. I left it half way then I got the chance to play the lead in Saira Banoji's Kisse Apna Kahein on Sahara. I replaced the lead towards the end of the serial. So, I didn't get the feel of the character much.
Later, I got to play the role of Kaya in Star Plus' Dekho Magar Pyaar Se. But once the track changed I opted out.
How did you got the role of Rani in Woh Rehnewali Mahalon Ki'
Like every other actress worth her salt even I'd heard the Rajshri's were getting into production and were looking for a heroine. I didn't think I'd make it but I definitely decided to give it a try.
I passed through the first round and in the second round they gave me hard core Hindi to read out and fortunately I managed to clear the auditions as well as the delivery test and the interviews. In February we started shooting.
What is Rani, the character you play in Woh… like?
Rani hails from a rich family. She is the youngest of four sisters and is the most pampered sibling. It's about her story when she realises the hardships in life. She is a very strong willed woman. When you see the serial, you will realise how she struggles with life and makes it on her own. You can see how she slowly wins over her in-laws love, who are initially against her.
How can you differentiate between Reena and Rani?
Reena is an introvert kind of a person. I am a good listener. I have many similarities with Rani. Rani is very sweet to everyone but I cannot be so sweet though I don't talk harshly.
But during the same time you got married.
You are right, during the audition I got this marriage proposal (arranged). I was very skeptical whether to inform the Rajshri people. But I thought I must be honest to my work and live upto their expectation. And truly they never opposed my decision.
Any reaction from your in-laws or husband….
No, In fact, my husband and family members who live in Delhi sounded relaxed when they came to know that I am working with Rajshri productions. They feel proud that I am part of woh rehne wali.
Tell us something about your husband?
(blushingly) He is not from the same industry but he is working with HCL based in Delhi but soon he will be shifting to Mumbai, may be within a year. He is very supporting by nature. I travel every weekend to Delhi. On certain occasions, he gives me a surprise by flying down to Mumbai. I miss him a lot.
Do you like to party?
I feel socializing means having friends at home and enjoying a film. I don't like to go to parties. I believe people who are insecure about their work go to parties to network and seek work. I am not very ambitious in life.
Would you like to do theatre in the near future?
I really wouldn't mind, but presently I am tied up with my other projects. May be in the future I may try my hand in it to get experience in it.
How is the atmosphere on the set?
The atmosphere is very nice. Everyone is very friendly and pull each other's leg. They play pranks. Alok Nathji is a very loving and caring person. I feel as if I am there with my dad. He has that typical father figure which I miss a lot. My co-star Arjun Punjj is very professional by nature.
Are you looking at working in films?
Yes. But I should be comfortable with the role I play and I am not comfortable with exposing. The character should be nice to work. I have already worked with Kundan Shah in his film "Kya Kehna" where I played the role of Preity's close friend. If in future I get a chance I will surely do the role.
What do you do during your spare time?
I like to listen to old Hindi melodies reading philosophy and travelling anywhere India or abroad.