'My skin tone is in' - says saloni

Rajshree Thakur as the dusky Saloni in 'Saat Phere', sets a liberating precedent.

What made you switch from news-reading to films?
I grew up watching the late Bhakti Barve and Smita Patil reading news. I was fascinated by them. So I took to news-reading. In between I also did Marathi theatre and an Indo-French film which was screened at the Asian Film Festival. After this, somebody suggested my name to Punendu Shekhar (writer of 'Saath Phere'). Later I was called for an audition. I opted for this role as it was different from the saas bahu ones.

What has been the feedback like?
The serial deals with a time-long issue that troubles dark-skinned girls in society. I have loads of e-mails from girls who say that they identify with Saloni. One girl wrote saying that while her sister was fair she was dusky. But the serial proved to be a turning point in her life. When I attended the Zee Carnival in London, I was surprised to know that Saloni is loved there too.

Did you ever face discrimination because of your dusky skin?
When I began modeling, I thought that perhaps being fair-skinned would be an advantage. But after modeling for a jewellery brand, I realised that my skin-tone was 'in'. Even in my other assignments I have never tried to camouflage my colour.

Would you ever use a fairness cream?
Never! I have no complex about my complexion. It's a unique tone. I wouldn't want dark-skinned girls to feel depressed either. And I would never model for fairness creams ever!

How would you define beauty?
It's about a woman's confidence, and acceptance of whatever nature has given her.
Tell us something about your fianc Sanjot Vaidya.
We have been together since college. He is an actor too and has worked more on stage. He played Manilal in 'Gandhi Virudh Gandhi'.

What is the keynote of your relationship?
We are friends first and respect each other. He guides me. Sanjot is not very expressive and does not pay me any lavish compliments. He says, 'My loving you is enough, it contains everything'.

Have you postponed your marriage?
Yes we will get married by the end of this year. There is no time to get married (laughs)! 'Saat Phere' is slotted as of now for 200 episodes. Saloni's journey does not end with her marriage. Rather the twists and suspense begin with it.
k_farhana@dnaindia.net