After comedies like “Shriman Shrimati” and “Tu Tu Main Main”, Reema Lagoo returns to the small screen after a long gap with the family drama “Do Hanson Ka Joda” on NDTV Imagine. It is produced by Rajshri Productions, whose films made Reema a household name.
Having played mother to some of the biggest names in the industry, here again she is playing a doting mother, Snehlata. “It is a lovely mother-daughter story where the mother is trying to find a suitable groom for her daughter. She is full of hope and life, despite her illness,” says Lagoo.
Excerpts from an interview:
How was it working with the Barjatyas once again?
I have a long association with the production house. I have been working with them since the time of “Maine Pyaar Kiya” and enjoy a great rapport with Kavita Barjatya, who convinced me to do the role.
The show revolves around traditional values, how much do you relate to the character?
The fact that such shows have an audience proves that our traditional values are still relevant. However, I feel youngsters these days are very confused about relationships. Every relationship has to be given time, with the ability to adjust and compromise in different situations, which they seem to be forgetting.
Being the mother of a young teenage daughter, I definitely relate to Snehlata and the story. I am quite traditional yet sensitive. I would like my daughter to settle in an arranged marriage. However, if she likes someone, I wouldn't mind, provided it is a serious and stable relationship.
Having played the mother to famous stars like Salman, Kajol and Shah Rukh, do you think actresses are typecast after a certain age?
It is true that women get typecast into mother and sister roles after 30. It is a glamorous industry after all, and Bollywood does not want to make anything except love stories. It doesn't even dabble into mature love stories. So, I try not to think too much about it and just do the work I am getting. Thinking too much about what is not happening is just a waste of time.
You started with Marathi cinema; does it still have an audience?
Regional cinema has always had a select audience. However, in terms of quality, Marathi cinema industry is definitely growing. Films are being made on different topics, for example “Sukhant”, which dealt with the sensitive issue of mercy killing, or “Janma”, which recently premiered at the International Films Festival in Goa. It dealt with the sufferings due to cancer. I also got the best supporting actress award for my role in “Sarah”, meaning shadow, in 2008. It feels great when your work is recognised and honoured.
What about Marathi theatre?
I started with Marathi theatre and will always retain the love for the medium. It provides instant reaction from my audience and is very lively. I recently acted in the Marathi play “Tula Mi Mala Mi” under my production house Orima Creations. Written by Girish Karnad, the play had 35 shows all over the world. I am also taking the play “Tu Banchi Pia Jachin” (‘Journey of a Woman') to different parts of the country.
