‘I’m a small town girl’

How did acting happen to you?

I wanted to see myself on the big screen and I am working every day towards that.

Did you face any struggle in the industry?

I come from a very small place called Pathakhera in Madhya Pradesh, so convincing everyone at home about my Mumbai dreams was a challenge. After college, I did a few ads and anchoring too, but nobody at home knew about that. I visited Mumbai twice for a look test and the second time, I got selected for Hamari Devrani and after signing the agreement I called my parents and told them about everything. They agreed, and have been supportive since then.

Tell us about your role in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai?

I play Surekha Goenka in YRKHH. I will soon complete four years, and the experience has been amazing. It’s a typical Indian show full of family values and love.

How much do you relate to your character?

Not at all. First of all, she is married, I am not. Then she is very fashionable and is always decked up, while in real life I am very simple.

What kind of response have you received from the fans?

People say that I look beautiful on screen and that my acting looks very natural. Also, if I go out, people recognise me. What more can an actor want?

Share your dream role.

I want to play a character which has a dual personality, or may be an out-and-out comedy or a hopeless romantic character.