smriti's next project: a family drama....

There's no stopping nation's ladli bahu and CEO of Ugraya Entertainemnt Pvt Ltd, Smriti Irani. After delivering two star-studded shows Thodi Si Zameen Thoda Sa Aasman on Star and soon-to-be-aired Virrudh on Sony, now the plucky producer's readying a plum project for Zee network.

Rather elated, yet weighing her words rather carefully she says, "I am producing a family drama for Zee network. But let me clarify, it's not for Zee Hindi but for a regional channel probably. Woh ek naya shetra hoga(that will be a new area altogether). The story of Thodi Si Zameen….was woven in a chawl setting, Virrudh is a drama looking for the truth in relationships and the next project will also be breaking new grounds."

As for now, apart from being busy with Virruddh, her eyes are really set on taking her production house, Ugraya Entertainemnt Pvt Ltd to greater heights. Revealing her strategy further, Smriti says, "I believe as a production house we should be ready to cater to all the demands of any channel. I think I've been one of the lucky few actors who have managed to break away from my screen image. When I travel round the country, people do recognize me as Smriti Irani and not just as Tulsi. Though, I must also confess I haven't forgotten my roots."

What's driving Smriti really, is it ambition or just her creative impulses? "Well, I wouldn't say I am ambitious but I don't want to rest on past laurels. Woh ek zamane mein itni badi star thi (she used to be a big star at one point in time) I want to move ahead with the times and try out more things. I've proved my skills with writing but I am not keen on directing; as I believe direction is not a wimp but a concentrated effort. Also, there is so much talent in the market that needs to be given direction."

With so much on her hand, does this leave her with much family time for her kids? Flashing a 100 watt smile, the actor turned politician says, "I make it point to cook at least one meal for my children. But right now, my maid is on leave, so I am cooking all the three meals."
Perhaps, that says it all!