I’m nothing like Shamoli

She is a complete contrast to the daily soap protagonist. While most lead characters are demure girls- next-door who get married and go through relationship problems and sacrifices, Shamoli of Baytaab Dil Ki Tamanna Hai is a bold and brazen girl who doesn't mind inviting danger. In fact, this sultry siren treads the dark, edgy and forbidden side of life. But Sumana Das who plays Shamoli is quite unlike the aggressive and outspoken anti-heroine in real life.
"I am a calm and peaceful person. I am a confident girl, but not bold and rebellious like her," reveals Sumana, who bagged the role after Ekta had rejected several girls. "I heard that some television celebrities had also been auditioned for the character, but none fitted the role," she adds.
A fashion designer based in Pune, Sumana was a regular visitor to Mumbai and thought of trying her luck in acting. "I was in a dilemma whether to pursue acting, but eventually I thought why not? Luckily I didn't face any parental opposition," says the good looking girl who made her television debut on a kids channel early this year. "I played a 16-year-old spoilt brat in Kya Mast Hai Life. It was a parallel lead and a good debut," she adds.
When she went to Balaji Studios to audition, she never thought she'd bag Shamoli's role, reveals Sumana. "I went for a regular audition. But they liked me and called me for more auditions and a look test. I was excited when they told me that I was selected for the role," she says.
It wasn't easy for Sumana to get into the skin of the character in the beginning. "I wasn't new to acting since I had been doing my first show for eight months, but it was difficult to get into the skin of the character. To be a loud, angry and brave girl was not easy. Add to that the liberal use of gaalis and I had a tough time saying my lines," she quips.
However, Sumana has overcome her initial hiccups. "The gaalis have been toned down and I'm more tuned into the character now, though I still feel the pressure of playing the lead in a high profile show," says Sumana, who has suddenly become a mini-celebrity now. "Life has changed a lot and it is exciting. People recognise me now."
Elaborating further on her role, Sumana says Shamoli is a survivor. "She loves the lifestyle of the rich and famous and wants to be a part of it, even if it means going against the norms. She is determined to succeed in life, no matter what the cost," she adds.