EXCLUSIVE: “I have the advantage of my mother-in-law who looks after my husband and the kitchen” – Bhagyashree

The graceful, dainty, pretty and lovely Bhagyashree needs no introduction. She hit the bull’s eye with Sooraj Barjatya’s ‘Maine Pyaar Kiya’ and made her way to the hearts of millions across the nation. Despite her quitting films for attending to family needs for a long time, the adulation for her has not waned in the heart of her fans. After a few attempts to soar high on-screen, Bhagyashree has finally got success with her popular TV series ‘Laut Aao Trisha’ on Life OK that has been climbing the TRP charts and is going to get a prime time slot as well. We spoke to the adored actress, hands-on mother and a warm human being about her life till now. Excerpts from the interview:

Well, what exactly triggered you to take ‘Lau Aao Trisha’ in the first place?

It was a show that was completely different in its narrative. It wasn’t the bechari silent woman who cannot stand up for herself. The central character was that of today's woman who knows and speaks her mind and yet knows family values. Most importantly, I could identify with the sentiments of the central character, Amrita, who is a woman, a mother who loved her daughter and would not rest till she finds her.

What is your equation with Nalini Negi?

She is a sweet girl and very raw when she started off but always eager to learn. She would always come and ask how she could improve her lines or better herself. Like every young entrant, she has made mistakes but she has also gradually improved and is always trying to better herself.

Being a working woman, how to you manage to juggle work and family life?

It is tough for sure and one has to prioritise things at every stage. That is one of the important reasons why I did not take up work earlier. My children have always been number one on my list. It is now that they are all grown up and have been more than encouraging. In fact, they have actually pushed me to start work again. Time has to be divided well enough so that things and people don’t get neglected. I work about 15 days a month and make sure that at least one meal of the day is with the family.
I also must add that I have the advantage of my mother in law who looks after my husband and the kitchen well enough for me not to get stressed. :)))

We read in one of your interviews that you had to leave films soon after marriage as your husband was possessive about you. So, how did you manage to convince him for a comeback years after marriage?

I didn’t, the kids did. They were so vocal about me being the best mom ever and that it is about time that I do what I have always loved. I guess no one could have any arguments on that. (laughs)

How do your children look at your professional success and stature?

They are as proud as they can possibly be. They also feel and know that I value them over what the world offered me. They have seen the adulation and love I receive even to date from people around. They realise that I am valued more as a perfect woman that is also in regard to my giving up my career at its peak to look after my family. It reflects upon the person I am. The person they are proud to have as their mom.

Do they also aim to be in films?

My daughter Avantika is studying business in London while Abhimanyu is training to be an actor.

How much interest does your husband take in your work?

He has his hands too full with his own work.

You belong to a royal family. Please share with us how was your upbringing?

It was extremely protective with a lot of value given to tradition, respect, manners, projection of one's image in society, even the way we dressed. It taught us to think beyond ourselves and everything that we did and said had an effect and reaction. So, one could not be rash, impulsive or even just plain silly. I guess it made me feel responsible sooner than one would have liked to be. (laughs)

Have you raised your kids in the same way?

Though I do believe in certain traditions and having good manners, my children were allowed to behave like teens. I allowed them to make mistakes as long as they didn’t hurt anyone.

Today's society is more open and my children can discuss anything under the sun with me. They are allowed to have an opinion and we do not dictate what they should do and not do. However, they have seen their parents carry themselves with respect and dignity and I am glad that they do the same.

Even at this age, how do you manage to look so graceful and gorgeous? What’s the secret?

By being happy within. Seriously, I cannot and do not hold a grudge against anyone. I think the positivity shows and glows.;)))))