SUDHA CHANDRAN who plays Srilekha Iyengar in Sony TV’s Tara from Satara speaks with MUSBA HASHMI about her role, how she balances her work, personal life and upcoming projects
What is your role?
I play Srilekha Iyengar, one of the three judges of the show Dancer No 1. She is strict and knows the value of classical dancing. She is precise in what she says and is a perfectionist. She believes is talent and hard work. Sometimes it appears as if she is a negative character but that’s not the case. She is loving.
Were there any apprehensions before taking up the role?
Not at all. This is one role that I have never ventured into and it comes as a beautiful change for me. I have never done anything related to a reality show but fiction. Here it is a blend of both. I am happy to be part of it.
How did acting happen to you?
I don’t exactly know how it happened. There is a film made on my life — Naache Mayuri. I was casted in it because the story was based on my life and that is how I entered the industry. That’s all I remember for now.
Can you remember a role thatis close to your heart?
There are many roles that are my favourite but the one that comes close to my heart is Ramola Sikand in Kaahin Kissii Roz. I believe the role was a turning point in my career. The second one which was like a comeback for me on TV was Yamini Singh Raheja in Naagin.
How has your journey been thus far?
It has been a long one. My journey was never like a straight line, it was full of a lot of ups and downs. Both ups and downs are important in life to break the monotony otherwise one can become stagnant. It has been interesting with a lot of curves and I am enjoying it all through.
Was there moment when you thought of quitting in between?
Yes. After doing Naache Mayuri I was jobless for seven years. People kept telling me that I am not made for this industry and it will never accept me. But somewhere in my heart, I had that belief that if God has brought me in this industry, there is a purpose behind it and He will never let me down. Because of this implicit faith in the Almighty, I still continue to be a part of this industry even after so many years. I knew that the right time will come when everything will change for the better. It did. And when it came, it was big.
Is it hard to balance your work and personal life?
No. It is easy to balance work and family. Most of the women are doing it today and we actors are no exception. But I have drew a definite line between my work and family. I work for 12 hours a day and then go back home and spend the rest of the time with my family. I make sure that whatever time I am getting free, it should be well spent with my small family —my husband, my father and I.
Any advice for the aspiring actors?
Ideally, there is no need to advise the upcoming generation because they are focused in life, they know what they want and are working towards it. They are dedicated and believe in working hard. The amount of hours they put into work is amazing. It is nice to see the new breed of actors coming up who are so professional.
Upcoming projects?
At present, I am doing Bepanah Pyaarr on Colors, Yeh Hai Mohabbtein on Star Plus and Tara from Satara. I would like to concentrate on these shows for now.