It’s worth it!

Mona

Every job comes with some occupational hazards. For actor Shrenu Parikh, it is to be decked up in layers of make-up, elaborate costumes and tons of jewellery. Not that she’s complaining. Six years in the industry, this Ishqbaaaz actor can perform stunts even in a saree!

In Chandigarh to enjoy an IPL match along with the fans of Star Plus, this pretty damsel living her dream, is happy to see Chandigarh live up to her expectations.

With dreams to become Miss India, Shrenu had to move her goalpost. Her height did not match the set criteria so she made do with step two – try her luck in glam industry. “Early days in the industry were full of struggles. I and my father would sit on the floor next to the washroom in train to get to Mumbai to work,” shares this Vadodara girl. She did find a foothold in the telly world but the first two years she was homesick. “I would take a train back every night when I would have a day off.” Over the last six years, she has gotten used to Mumbai.

Playing Gauri in Ishqbaaaz did not come easy. “She was this dabang character far removed from me,” admits the actor. Watching Bhojpuri films to get the accent right, now Shrenu is comfortable that it’s been a year.

Does it get monotonous doing the same serial year after year? “Not really. Tracks change and there is some drama or another keeping one on toes.” While all the love that one gets while the serial is doing well is one high this actor loves, the time between different projects is what she dreads. “Howsoever experienced you are, auditioning all over again for a new show is intimidating.”

And, all the criticism the Indian telly shows keep coming under? Shrenu gives the egg and the chicken – the ‘which came first’ analogy. “Serials mimic life and some say its other way round. We do dramatise certain aspects but whatever is shown on telly has stemmed from reality and that makes for its huge popularity.”

With a Gujarati film set for release, Shrenu is happy enjoying the telly world. “Growing up in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi days, I have mimicked the characters. I am glad I have found my own to play with.”

The childhood dreams

Shrenu Parikh enjoys an active presence on social media. In fact, her singing talent gets much appreciation by her fans. Petite, pretty she tells the story, “When I was six my mother sent me to learn music. But I slept in the class or I could have been a singer today.” Growing up, she would write many letters to her idol Aishwarya Rai and wondered if they ever reached her. But she’s happy that courtesy social media her fans can reach out to her. “A huge part of an actor’s life is love from the fans. I love keeping in touch.” As for singing, Shrenu is hoping that Pollywood gives her to live two of her dreams – acting and singing – as has been the set norm for years!