Starryskies thumbnail
Explorer Thumbnail
Posted: 20 years ago
#1
From Jassi To Jessica

Photographs by Sameer Parekh; Text by Shraddha Jahagirdar-Saxena; Make-up and hair by Priya Ramchandani; Location courtesy: Olive bar and kitchen, Mumbai

Published: Volume 13, Issue 3, May-June, 2005
Everyone says my greatest physical asset is my smile but I love my nose. It is just the right size and I will never need a nose job!

She became a household name with her small screen appearance as the umbling, bespectacled, much-loved character, Jassi, in Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin. Outfitted stylishly in cool creations of trendy designers, model-turned actor, Mona Singh, speaks forthrightly about her infamous hairdo, iconic status and career moves.

Polka dotted sari and one-shouldered blouse, at Satya Paul; beaded necklace, at Vipul Arts; pearl ring, from Silver Stone, at Cypress. All in Mumbai.

Mona Speak

I love the attention. I used to think that only Bollywood stars were so popular. But film stars are larger than life and fans maintain a distance from them. As Jassi, I have people coming up to me and holding my hand. I have become a part of their families.

Jassi broke the mould by not being good looking. Her thick spectacles, braces and fringe, combined with her simple outfits, made her look rather ordinary.

I had to alter my body language for the role. In real life, I am much more confident and it shows in the way I talk and move around. I watched the Spanish original – Yo Soy Betty, La Fea – and tried to walk with drooping shoulders and not look anyone straight in the eye.

Life beyond Jassi.... I know that all good things come to an end and some day, the serial will draw to a close. I would never like to break free of Jassi. I have done many shades in one role – bubbly, affectionate, unsure, trusting.... Now, I am Jessica Bedi, more attractive, poised and confident. Actually, she is more like the real-life me.

Batik silk kurta, at Shlok; yellow linen embroidered pants, at Ensemble. Both by Surily Goel.
Embellished chappals, from Mt.Meru, at You; copper crystal belt, at Aftershock; turquoise watch, by Tommy Hilfiger, at Lifestyle.
All in Mumbai. Square bangles, Mona's own.

Yellow georgette kurta with beaded necklace and white linen pants, both by Surily Goel, at Shlok; mirror-work bag, by Shaan Khanna, at You; turquoise embroidered heels, at Metro; turquoise ring, at Popli Art Gallery. All in Mumbai. All diamond jewellery, at Moksh, Mumbai.

Pink silk floral poncho and printed scarf, at Satya Paul; clutch bag, at The Oak Tree; ring, by Karishma Mehra, at Joolry. All in Mumbai.
Sunglasses, from Gucci; diamant belt, from London flea market. Jeans, Mona's own.

Related Topics

Top

Stay Connected with IndiaForums!

Be the first to know about the latest news, updates, and exclusive content.

Add to Home Screen!

Install this web app on your iPhone for the best experience. It's easy, just tap and then "Add to Home Screen".