‘There are many stars, few actors and fewer brands. I am happy to qualify for the last two’

When Ekta met me 10 months ago, she told me that Tulsi must die. It’s strange but I didn’t ask her why. I didn’t question her because even when she had asked me to be Tulsi, I hadn’t asked her why. Moreover, I feel it’s a producer’s prerogative. She’s Ekta Kapoor and she has made the careers of many TV stars. What surprised me when Tulsi left was the furore. Public sentiment was hurt. I travel widely across the country for political and social reasons. During my travels, I realised that fans had been missing Tulsi. They were angry and wanted her back. I started out as an actor seeking money and fame. At this stage in my career, I’m fortunate to be able to choose my roles.

•SHAILAJA BAJPAI: So Ekta asked you to come back?

She did call me back. She wants me to be part of the Balaji family. We have nurtured each other’s careers in the past. I don’t think that an old association like ours should sour so quickly.

Some actors fade away after a show finishes. Some come with an even shorter shelf-life. It depends on the kind of actor you are. There are many stars, few actors and fewer brands. I am happy to qualify for the last two.

•SURUCHI MAZUMDAR: Do you identify with Tulsi?

I grew up in a conservative family. Even today, we start our day with puja. So the so-called Virani culture of Kyunki... wasn’t alien to me. In fact, one day my father came to pick me up at the airport and I embarrassed him by touching his feet in full view of journalists and fans gathered there. It came naturally to me. So I was very comfortable playing Tulsi.

•SHAILAJA BAJPAI: Everything about the K serials is opulent. Is there a contradiction between the role you play on the screen and the causes of the poor you espouse as a politician?

Tulsi is actually a very simple character. She seldom wears jewellery or bright clothes. I try to keep my characters as simple as possible. I admit our characters do have an impact on audiences. So whenever I interact with fans, I tell them that it’s a celebrity’s real life and work that should be taken as an example, not the characters he portrays.

... contd.