Despite a hectic promotional schedule, small screen heartthrob Drashti Dhami
seemed to be in a happy space during her Ahmedabad trip. In between
getting mobbed at every stopover by star-struck fans and sportingly
posing for fun snap shots/selfies with them, Drashti also took time out
for a quick photo stop and conversation with Ahmedabad Times at Amdavad
Ni Gufa. Drashti who's made a comeback to prime time television with
Silsila... Badalte Rishton Ka went into rewind mode as she shared
her early memories of her Ahmedabad visits. "I used to come here with
my parents when I was a child and went Navratri shopping at Law Garden,
eating the Gujarati thali, said Drashti. Excerpts from a chat:
At a time when digital shows are talking about contemporary
issues, daily soaps seem to be thriving on the same stereotypes and
cliched formula. As a television star don't you feel unhappy at times?
I firmly believe that our showmakers are smart enough to understand
what works best for the daily soap audience. If there is regressive
content on television, there is a dedicated audience for those shows as
well. At the same time, some Hindi soaps are also breaking free from
stereotypes. As an actor, I have always played strong characters who are
also realistic and sensible. So, I have no complaints or regrets about
the medium.
As a Gujarati, your connection with Ahmedabad must be pretty strong.
I have a lot of fond memories associated with Gujarat. I've also
travelled to Surat and Bhavnagar a lot. Even now whenever I am in
Ahmedabad or Vadodara, I talk to everyone in Gujarati and it gives me a
sense of belonging. So yes, my connection with this state is pretty
special.
Gujarati films are doing well these days. Have you thought of doing a Gujarati film yet?
I have been hearing so many good things about Gujarati movies doing well and everyone's talking about
Gujjubhai Most Wanted, Chal Man Jeetva Jaiye, Fera Feri Hera Feri etc.
I am glad that some of these movies are even screened abroad. My mom
loves watching Gujarati films. As far as I am concerned, I liked
Chhello Divas.
I connect more to Gujarati plays some concepts are very good. I am
not interested in doing films at this stage. If something interesting
comes my way, I might think about it.
Almost every television star has moved to the digital platform
since it offers more creative freedom. You haven't done a web show yet,
why is that?
Well, it's heartening to see that web
shows have found takers, especially since they have interesting and
experimental content. However, a lot of web shows talk about bold issues
and have bold women characters. I don't think I will be able to do
justice to such a character.
We've heard you are a foodie. How do you manage to stay so fit after indulging yourself?
All the credit needs to go to my
husband Neeraj (Khemka). He is such a fitness enthusiast that it rubs
off on me too. We compete with each other to see who is fitter.
Although, I'm just recovering from a back injury that has kept me away
from the gym. So, as of now I am only eating
ghar ka khaana to stay in shape.