After completing a decade in Bollywood, actress Neha Dhupia, known for her movies such as Julie and Phas Gaye Re Obama , forays into the world of television with the show Natuanki – The Comedy Theatre on Colors. We got her to answer a few questions on that and her film career.
Tell us something about Nautanki – The Comedy Theatre.
It is a comedy show which showcases an amalgamation of theatre, films and television. It is an effort to bring all of them together on a common platform. The idea is very different and unique. The show is very beautiful when you look at it and the sets are also quite amazing. There would be lots of comedy but no disqualifications.
How did you come to be associated with it?
I liked the concept of bringing ‘live theatre’ back on television and immediately came on board for the show. I must confess that I am really excited about the show and looking forward to the response from the audience.
The trend of cinema actors coming into small screen is on the rise. What is your take on that?
Television is developing into a great medium to reach out to the masses and actors don’t want to let the opportunity go. With the advent of non—fiction into television, the audience base of the television industry has greatly increased and even actors want an access to that. Even I let go some movie offers to be a part of this show.
You have completed a decade in Bollywood. How do you look back at it?
When I started my journey, I expected it to be a one – time experience but I have learnt a lot more. I don’t think number of years can define the experience one has. The film fraternity has been very nice to me. I have, definitely, come a long way but I have still a long way to travel. I have received a lot of love and appreciation from my fans and admirers. I started with glamorous roles but lately I have also done many character driven portrayals. I am happy but still hungry for more.
You are also making a debut in Punjabi cinema withRangeelay. How was the experience?
Rangeelay is an exciting, funny and amazing romantic comedy which I am very happy to be a part of. I am looking forward to working with Jimmy Shergill who is quite a big name in Punjabi cinema. I always wanted to do a romantic comedy and at last it has come my way. The film was very challenging in the beginning but my Punjabi roots helped me to get accustomed to the circumstances pretty quickly.
What is your reaction to allegations made on Bollywood for improper portrayal of women?
I strongly refute these allegations as they are really silly. We need stronger safety measures in our country to counter nefarious tendencies of humans and baseless allegations on something or someone won’t help the cause. It is a foolish analogy.
Future projects?
I am doing a film titled Omi with Karan Johar which has an ensemble cast. There is also another comedy film lined up for which the shoot will begin after the completion of the television show.
