I guess I'm simply lucky-Shweta article

She doesn't depend on one show to boost her popularity. Tellydoms bindaas girl ...Shveta Salve has portrayed many facets of a woman; be it a college girl, a corporate woman, a daughter-in-law, a wife......thus being lucky not to be typecasted. Sticking to her true self, Shveta has recently added a new feather to her long list of hatke roles. She plays a psychiatrist, Dr. Ritu Mishra, in SAB TV's latest offering, Left Right Left. Here's a candid conversation between Sameera Kapoor and the actor.

So, we finally see you in a new show, Left Right Left.....
Yeah, I feel good for two reasons. Firstly, after Sarkkar (Zee) this is my next project and second, I have worked with this production team (DJ's ) before. So, I am well versed with their style of working. DJ's are known for the passion and hard work they put in their projects. And I prefer the same style of working. So, it's but obvious that I'm enjoying my part in their new venture, Left Right Left.

What made you say 'yes' to the role of Dr. Ritu Mishra in this show?
For the first time I get the opportunity to play a psychiatrist. I am the friend, philosopher and guide of the cadets. Their future depends upon my evaluation of how competent are they as army officers. So, it's quite a challenging and a substantial role. The importance assigned to my character and the treatment given makes me stand out.

So you are like an agony aunt for the cadets…
The term 'agony aunt' would be inappropriate. Reason being, Ritu is not there to say goody goody things to them. She is in fact, a no-nonsense woman, who does not mince words. She is very much aware that she's in a male dominated profession but doesn't allow her feminity to hinder her ambitions. In fact, her presence unnerves the men folk around.

Well, general perception is that those who have a tough exterior are otherwise very vulnerable and secretive. Do we foresee a dark past in Dr. Ritu's life?
Hmmm…. You'll have to wait and watch (laughs)! I will not divulge further details, but yes, as the story unfolds, you will know more facets of her persona. Ritu certainly doesn't exude 'what-you-see-is-what-you-get type of an attitude. There is something unsaid about her, which you will see as the serial proceeds.

We've heard that to retain authenticity, the actors underwent aggressive training at the Raigad Military School. How bad were you grilled?
Yes, but it was only for the cadets and their seniors. As I play a doctor and am not required to flex muscles, I was spared of the grueling training sessions.

Then you must have definitely done some homework for the role.....
Yes, I surfed the net, read articles on psychology and similar stuff. To get into the skin of the character I even studied some case files.

Do you identify with Dr.Ritu as a person?
No ways! Unlike Ritu, I am not a talkative person. I prefer listening and am a keen observer. Also Ritu is very blunt; she will call a spade a spade. However, I'll think hundred times before I open my mouth.

But your stint in Fear Factor (Sony) proves that you do opt for challenges like Dr. Ritu?
Absolutely, I am a complete outdoor girl. I love adventure sports. That's the main reason that I accepted to be a part of Fear Factor. The entire event was mind blasting!

You've been lucky to essay a variety of roles in your career. Was it intentional or things just fell into place?
I guess I'm simply lucky, that I got to experiment with my roles. It was never a deliberate attempt. It's the perception of the casting team; it's their say. With no offence meant, I feel, if one is confident, intelligent and attractive, you are chosen to essay diverse roles. Fortunately, I fall in that category and I have no qualms whatsoever.

But we have never seen you playing the gharelu bahu?
That's true, but if I am offered to play an interesting role of a bahu, I am game. I'm an actor and my duty is to act and not advocate what is good or bad. In fact, it would be a challenge to play that role in such a manner that it doesn't look clichd.

Coming back to Left..., what kind of response are you expecting?
Well, I am positive that it will create a good impact. But again, that depends on the viewers, whether they find me see a convincing psychiatrist in me.

We know you must be waiting for this over-asked question. How was it working with Rajeev Khandelwal?
It's like working with any other actor (laughs). Just kidding! Well, he is really a nice guy. It's really commendable that he has achieved so much in such a short span. Besides, in my opinion, there should be a chemistry off screen, then only will you recreate the magic on screen.

Got your point! So what type of chemistry exists between Ritu and Rajveer (Rajeev)?
Hey that's not fair! You want me to disclose everything right away. If I tell you everything then who will watch my show (laughs)!

Last question....any other projects?
Nothing as such, except that I'll be entering Kituu Sab Janti Hai on Sahara. It's my third show with Siddhant Productions where I play a corporate woman, Malaika, head of a news channel.

Source: Tellychakkar.com

~Leena