Manjari looks back on her trying times
In STAR One's prime time show Yeh Ishq Haaye, Manjari aka Srishty Rode came through for her family in the moment of crisis. Though her family did accept her post her past regressions, she had been struggling to find the same warmth and love from her family that she enjoyed before she ran away from home. Finally at peace, Manjari looks back on her valour and the trying times she faced with her family.
What did you feel when your family was going through a financial crisis?
I felt terrible and helpless. More often than not, a family looks up to the son of the family to share any problems or burden, but in this case, I stepped up and became a son for my father. I am glad I was able to help my father in his time of need by selling my poems and jingles, for which I received a decent sum.
Share some tips about how one can spend money wisely during such times?
I would suggest you save for a rainy day at first, because sometimes, destiny tests us, and we need to be wise about spending. One must focus on necessities and be frugal in trying times. Luxuries should be forgotten till the tide turns. Make every paisa count, and save whatever possible. Once you let all the trimmings of a high-flying life go, you can realise how little it takes to make things work. Look at it this way: trying times might make you value your hard work and money more.
Do you think shifting from a big house to a small one will be tough?
No, I don't think so. As a family, we are close, and believe in working through any circumstance, so the size of the house will not be an issue. As the saying goes, one must have a large heart rather than a large house. I would like to think we all have large hearts, and a small house will only bring us closer.
How did you deal with the sudden responsibility that came upon you?
With attention and drive. Any responsibility is tough if you treat it as a mountain, but I was focused not on the responsibility but the results. Perhaps God gave me the strength to come through with flying colours. Belief in yourself is important. Give your goals your all, and you will see results. We are all happy with what we have in life, and are looking forward to more happiness.
Are you doing the right thing by sacrificing your love for Akshay and marrying Sanjay?
I think so. I was selfish for a large part of my life, but now that I am back with my family, I feel it is time for me to sacrifice my love for Akshay and make them happy. Akshay isn't here anyway, and we never really committed to each other. I want to be there for my family. My father is happy with my engagement with Sanjay, and I want to keep that smile on his face. I am ready to do the right thing this time around, and I feel marrying Sanjay is the right thing for everyone.
Have you developed feelings for Sanjay?
Well? honestly, no! He is a friend for now, I would say. I used to love him deeply once upon a time, but started hating him later, when he played a game with me. After my return to my hometown, I forgave him when he asked for forgiveness. Now, I want to move on. I think of him as a good friend, who understands and cares for me.
How do you think your family will react when they find out about you and Akshay?
I guess they would be hurt, but I don't know for sure. I hope my family doesn't find out about Akshay, as it will only cause trouble. That chapter is closed, I feel, as he is miles away from me and I am getting married. Let bygones be bygones.
What do you miss most about Akshay?
I miss his presence, his strength, his confidence in me, his caring attitude, his smile, the love in his eyes?well, everything.
Srishty too is very close to her family a la Manjari. Here's what she had to say about her family.
What does family mean to you?
Everything. My family is my support system, and means a lot to me. I can't do without seeing my family daily. Whatever I do, my family is in my thoughts. For me, my family comes foremost.
Tell us about one memorable surprise that you planned for your family?
I love giving surprises, and I specialize in birthday surprises. So, from grand birthday cakes to cool gifts to big bashes, I have done it all for my family. I remember, three years ago, I told my mom that within three years, I would gift her something in gold. I wasn't working then, and little did I know that I would be doing a show. Last year on her birthday, I gifted her four gold bangles. She was so happy! That happiness is something I treasure even today. Even now, I am planning a family trip at the end of the month either to Dubai or Kerala and, yes, it will be a surprise for them.
In real life, have you experienced a situation where the family was going through a tough time and you overcame the situation together?
Well, life is a roller coaster, and everyone faces ups and downs. The point is to face trying times together and overcome all odds.
Who are you closest to in your family?
I am close to everyone, but more to my mom and sister. My elder sister and I share everything about our lives, clothes, jewellery. Her friends are friendlier with me than her. I gel well with her whole gang. There is a three-year gap between us, and perhaps, that helped form our strong bond and similar tastes. Mom is my darling. I love dad, too.
Don't forget to watch Manjari in Yeh Ishq Haaye every Monday to Friday at 8 PM, only on STAR One.
Kavita Awaasthi /Hill Road Media Monday, August 01, 2011
0 LIKE |
Kumkum Bhagya
Tu Dhadkan Main Dil
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
