Shefali Sharma, the new face on the long-running Diya aur Baati Hum talks about her new innings, family and much more.
How did Diya aur Baati Hum happen?
The show has been on the back of my mind for a really long time. And then the casting director called me for the show and gave me a brief outline about the character. I was a little apprehensive since I had just played a lead role and this one was a parallel lead. Then Kanika Maheshwari’s husband Ankur, who was my co-star on my previous show spoke to me and told me how this role is completely positive and how is here to stay. That’s when I decided to take it up.
Tell us about the role.
My character Laalima is very strong. She is extremely positive and has a calm approach to every problem that comes her way. It’s very similar to the roles I’ve played earlier.
How has life changed after marriage?
Honestly, I don’t feel the change that people otherwise speak about. I am the youngest in the family and everyone — right from my parents-in-law to my husband’s siblings pamper me rotten. They’re extremely open to my shooting schedule and really enjoy watching me on screen. If I get a little late at shoot, one of them will call me saying, “Please come back home, we’re getting bored without you.” I am lucky to have them as family.
Coming from a small town in Punjab, how has being a celebrity changed life?
I think it’s the recognition you get once you become an actor. Even though I was a part of beauty pageants back in Punjab, only the people there who saw my hoardings knew me. But now after my being on TV, more and more people know me and this feels really nice. Apart from that there hasn’t been much change. Personally, I had to shift base to Mumbai so going back to Amritsar became less frequent. And the fact that my father is now recognised as “Shefali’s father” makes him and me smile from ear to ear.
How did you feel about your previous show ending abruptly?
I wasn’t too happy about it but there’s nothing much that could be done then. I’m sure everything happens for a reason. I really do miss co-stars, the crew and all the fun we had. It was one big mad family. It continues to be one of my most memorable experiences till date.
