'Sindoora is closer to my heart'-article

She's definitely on her way to redefine the vamps of television. We are talking about none other than Kamya Punjabi whose portrayal of vicious but subtle and realistic Sindoora in Zee's Banu Main Teri Dulhann has sent the TRPs soaring each time she glares through her hazel contacts. And as Kamya (her character name) in Woh Rehne Wali Mahlon Ki, she offers serious competition to negative characters currently ruling the small screen.

With a string of serials to her credit - , Kehta Hai Dil, Piya Ka Ghar, Kyun Hota Hain Pyar and Astitva to her credit, this sassy and vivacious actor is fast coming one of the most identified faces in the industry.

In a heart to heart chat with Prashant Golecha, Kamya talks about her journey in this industry, what makes her current roles so special and what lies ahead for her. Excerpts.

What differentiates Sindoora from other telly vamps?
It's the simplicity of the character. She drapes simple cotton sarees. Contact lens is the only flashy item she sports and that's being appreciated by the audience. Though I act spontaneously I have really worked hard for it.

Make a choice between Sindoora (Dulhann…) and Kamya (Woh…)
Sindoora is closer to my heart. But both shows and characters are important. Kamya in Woh …is quite comic and I have avoided being loud by choice Working with Rajshri's is an excellent experience.

How do you manage these two dailies simultaneously?
It's hectic but I have no choice. And above all I enjoy my work.

Going into the reverse mode, did you even think twice before taking up your first negative role in Astitva?
I wanted to work with Ajay Sinha as I loved his serials, especially Hasaratein. I accepted the role of Kiran without a thought and it worked for me. And post that show I have done only negative roles!

How come you have not worked with Balaji Telefilms yet?
I was offered Kitni Mast Hai Zindagi but the kind of money they offered was not acceptable. I was also approached for a role in Kkusum. I would love to work for Ekta Kapoor because she is mind blowing. She has an amazing attitude and has really made it big. She is not bothered about what people comment about her shows and does what she feels is right.

What is the real Kamya Punjabi like?
I am a difficult person to understand. I prefer being very straightforward and hate liars. But I'm very emotional when it comes to my family.

Any special person in your life?
I am too focused about my career so where is the time for love?

It is learnt you dislike pets. Why so?
I had a cat who died when I was in school and I went into a depression. Probably that painful memory is still etched in my memory. Thus I don't like pets at all.

Who are your best pals from this industry?
Kavita Kaushik. But I don't get enough time to interact with her these days as I'm committed to two dailies.

Any memorable fan encounters?
Some time back when I was shooting in Madh Island a fan came up to me and recognized me. For a moment I was thrilled that I am known by my real name. But later he blasted my saying that he hates me because my on-screen characters only annoy others! The man gave me such a look that I was literally thought he would hit me any moment.

Is there a crossover to Bollywood on the cards?
I am happy doing television. If at all I do films in future it has to be a relevant role, nothing insignificant.