They return as parents on screen

Two of television’s leading ladies — Gautami Kapoor and Sangeeta Ghosh — will be taking over the second season of Parvarish. The show takes a look at the modern day parent-child relationship. We caught up with both actresses for a chat about their new roles and more. Excerpts:

Gautami Kapoor:
How did you come on board?
I was offered Parvarish months ago but I was already doing Tere Sheher Mein. Just when TSM was culminating the offer came to me again — the timing seemed right. I had taken a break for eight years. I don’t want any more breaks, expect maybe a one-off holiday. I’m here to work.

Are you a strict parent in real life?
Yes, very strict. It’s not like I don’t give my children freedom but I believe in discipline. Ram (Kapoor) is the lenient parent, because usually he gets to spend less time with them. But now it is me that is working, while he’s looking after the kids. I think now he is also realising the importance of being firm with them at times.

Your thoughts on TSM ending so abruptly?
We have to accept that TV is about TRPs and people have invested a lot in these shows. Sometimes certain tracks don’t work.

Sangeeta Ghosh
How was your break after Jee Le Zara? And why Parvarish as comeback?
My break was great. I was spending time with my husband in Jaipur. I realised that I enjoy homely duties like cooking, looking after our pet, even socialising and so on. I chose Parvarish as comeback  because the producers assured me that it won’t be like a typical daily soap. Indian TV is not looking great at the moment, and their words encouraged me to take it up. They were quite accommodating and agreed to my terms and conditions.

Since you aren’t a parent in real life, how do you relate to your character?
I’m not a mother myself, but I’ve observed how my mother and mother-in-law think and behave. They have always given me freedom and space. I’m picking up certain nuances from here and there. I don’t know what kind of mother I will be.

Do fans still discuss your iconic shows like Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chaand?
Yes, people still talk to me about Des Mein Nikla Hoga Chaand and Mehndi Tere Naam Ki. I feel I must have done some good work which is why they still remember.

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