An episode in history

Hum Log, the serial that revolutionised Indian television started on July 7, 1984. Twenty five years later, Divya Seth Shah, one of the prominent actors in the serial, reminisces on the era gone by

It burst onto the Indian teleision screen 25 years ago and changed it forever. The pioneering soap of the country, as the name Hum Log suggests, was all about the struggles and aspirations of the quintessential middle-class Indian family of the 80s. It not only went on to become the most memorable serial in Indian television history, it also gave birth to some legendary characters, which have stayed on in the hearts of the masses ever since. If you remember Hum Log, you can't forget the character of the second eldest daughter of family, who aspired to be an actress. As the serial celebrates its 25th anniversary today, TV actor Divya Seth Shah aka Majhli, who is now settled in Pune, speaks about the serial, the character essayed by her and the changes that the industry has gone through over the years.

On being known as Majhli
I don't think people still know me as Majhli. But yes, the popularity gained by Hum Log and the strong shades of the various characters made the serial unforgettable. Since the storyline was so brilliant and close to reality, people could actually relate to one or the other character of the family.

The dream role
It was the first year of my college and I was just 16-years-old. During my summer holidays, my mother (Sushma Seth -- who played the character of Dadi in Hum Log) informed me about this role which the production house was looking out for. Although I had not taken any formal training in acting, I was actively involved in my mother's theatre group. I think that helped me get the role.

... contd.

ALSO READ

Dance Like a Man

Tracing a Legend

‘My works have grown with me’

The Usual Suspects