The Proust Questionnaire: Jyotika

This is a weekly feature which derives its name from the French writer Marcel Proust, whose personality-revealing responses to these questions went on to popularise this form of celebrity confession.

May 02, 2015 08:57 pm | Updated 09:47 pm IST

What is your idea of happiness?

Having a “me” day once a week, wherein I just unwind and do what makes me feel relaxed — like working out, having coffee with friends, watching a movie, listening to music and having a romantic dinner.

What is your greatest fear?

Dying in a plane crash and any mishap with my kids. I always pray for their health.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?

Mother Teresa. Though she’s not exactly a historical character, the art of giving selflessly is the biggest virtue in life.

Which living person do you most admire?

I am very inspired by Amma (Jayalalithaa). She’s the epitome of woman power. Also, Saina Nehwal. She’s made every Indian proud.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

I wish I was an actress in real life. I cannot hide my feelings. My face is the mirror of my heart. I must learn to control my emotions.

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

I don’t like people who don’t value time. I’m extremely time-bound. A typical Libran trait, I guess. Also, hate diplomacy. For me, it should be straight to your face — good or bad.

What is your greatest extravagance?

I spend a lot on sportswear. Also, I love shopping for all kids at home and for close friends.

What is your favourite journey?

My journey back into childhood that I’m seeing through my children. Especially on sports day. It rekindles a lot of memories.

Who is your favourite painter?

My son Dev. He’s a great five-year-old artist. His drawings are my greatest possessions.

What do you consider the most overrated virtue?

Discussing film stars’ lives. After all, it’s their private lives, just like others’.

On what occasion do you lie?

I lie to escape media-related or public functions. They give me the jitters. I also spin a lot of stories to my kids, since I keep running out of new ones.

What do you dislike most about your appearance?

I’m a proud 36-year-old. Extremely natural without any surgeries.

Which living person do you most despise?

I hate men who molest kids. They should be shot dead on sight.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Awesome. God bless.

What is your greatest regret?

Not being able to spend time with my parents in Mumbai. I miss them a lot.

What or who is the greatest love of your life?

Surya, kids, chocolates, my friends.

When and where were you happiest?

I was happiest when my eight-year-old daughter Diya wrote me a letter a few days ago, telling me how much I meant to her and giving me the tag of the ‘Best Mum in the World’.

What is your present state of mind?

Content. Happy from the inside.

How would you like to die?

Any way (except flight crash) as long as it’s earlier than Surya.

What is your favourite motto?

Make your past jealous of your future.

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