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8/11/06
Smriti Irani hit by dengue
Is in ICU of Lilavati Hospital but her condition is stable
Being blunt: Smriti Z Iraani
One thing I HATE about myself
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The one thing I hate about myself is being blunt. It gets me into trouble often, but I still can't resist speaking the truth. I don't know if it's a good thing or bad, but I know it gets me into difficult situations when I stick to facts and the truth.
21/8/06
Tulsi is traditional, not submissive: Smriti Irani
Mumbai, Aug 21. (UNI): Television actor-politician Smriti Irani says that her epoch making role as Tulsi Virani in the longest running soap 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' was that of a traditional woman, but at the same time having her own voice.
"Being traditional does not mean that one has to be submissive. I have tried to play Tulsi in a manner, which is close to my personality," Smriti told reporters on the sets of her new serial 'Thodi si zameen Thoda sa Aasman', which she is co-producing with Ekta Kapoor. The new serial went on air from August 19 on Star Plus.
Uma of Thodi si... is less melodramatic. She has no expectations from life. Despite being forced to forgo her higher education for the sake of her younger brother, she has no bitterness. She accepts her parents' decision as a fact of life and works hard to support her family and lives a happy and simple life, Smriti said about her new project.
According to her, she had donned the producers' mantle two years ago with her Gujarati play 'Maniben.com'. I wanted to do more television productions and was in talks with three to four networks. When Shobha Kapoor learnt about my production plans, she asked me, "why dont we work together".
To a question on the less glamourised set up of her new serial as compared to rest of the Balaji serials, Smriti said the key to the success of Balaji serials especially 'Kyunki ...' was that it did not compare itself with any other project since it first went on air six years ago. Today despite being much maligned, 'Kyunki' and its concept of Saas-Bahu has become a benchmark. You hear many actors and producers say that they do not want to be associated with saas bahu serials and after few episodes one sees the same themes, she added.
She said Thodi Si Zameen... denotes her roots -a place to call home and Aasman is reflection of her pursuit of her dreams.
"Uma sees hope in the most difficult times. She takes everything in her stride," Smriti explained.
The actress said she considers herself as an actor more than a television star. "I have no qualms of greying my hair to suit the elder Tulsi's role after the second generation leap in June. Had I considered myself a mere TV star, women audiences would not have considered me one of their own," she added.
The actor-producer said she had no plans to take up direction. When asked about big screen, she said she was approached for a Gujarathi and one Hindi movie. When I asked for a draft of the script, both the producers did not come back to me.
To a question on whether the late night slot of 2230 hrs on weekends would work for her new serial, She said, "The same was said for Kyunki six years ago. But, it created history. I have been given this slot and will have to work hard to make it a success."
When said that audiences will get to see her throughout the week from Monday-Sunday on the 2230 hrs slot, she said, "It is upto the audiences to make the choice. There are variety of programmes on air and it is people's wish to see me or not. I will give my best shot to make my new serial a success."
She hopes to continue with her production house. "I do not have the support of a mother like Ekta Kapoor has in the production business. I hope to make it to the top slow and steady," she said.
Smriti said her political career is also going great guns. "Youth have realised the value of their single vote and are politically aware now," she felt.
Thodi Si zameen... stars noted Marathi actors Usha Nadkarni, Achyut Potdar and Vidya Sinha, among others are - Pawan Shankar, Harsh Chhaya, Sanjit Bedi, Jaya Bhattacharya.
To a question on reports that Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff playing the male lead opposite her, Smriti refused to comment. "These reports have been appearing for quite some time. But, I have not spoken to Jackie. When the male lead is finalised, you will come to know," she added.
Thodi Si Zameen... is written by Kamlesh Pandey and directed by Santram Varma. Smriti said she has shot five episodes so far and the story has the capacity to take the serial to 52 episodes.
source:http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus
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Uma Di on Raksha Bandhan
Wishing you a Happy Raksha Bandhan is Tulsi a.k.a Smriti Irani, who is soon to be in your homes as Uma Didi. Here she shares and wishes all her fans, and welcomes you to watch her new show! indya: Hi all! A very good morning to all you indyans gathered out there for the online special chat! Celebrating the spirit of Raksha Bandhan, indya.com brings you two special chats!
indya: Hi Smriti and welcome to the chat on indya.com! Nice to have you with us today! kkavybarsaat: Hi Smriti my name is Gurleen, I am 10 years old I am your biggest fan and so is my brother who is only 5 years old, we love you! I cannot wait till your next serial… Happy Rakhi from Canada. smritiirani: Hi Gurleen, my best wishes for you and your entire family for this Raksha Bandan, I'm delighted that a ten year old can find space for me in your lives, wish you and your brother a world of happiness and togetherness on this auspicious occasion, hope you like my coming series as much as you like me as Tulsi in Kyunki… asdfgf_4729: Do you have any brother and how are you celebrating Raksha Bandhan? smritiirani: I don't have a brother, I indulge with my son and daughter, I see their camaraderie and wish I did have someone to share Rakhi with! guest46: How does it feel to be Uma Didi after being Tulsi for so long? smritiirani: Its a new experience, a new challenge, I look for to it, there is smile on my face and I look forward every day's shoot , this show gives me an opportunity to showcase a new side to my craft. calcutta_sweta: Smriti, Sweta here , who is your moral support and a Happy Raksha Bandhan? smritiirani: Thank you, wish you too. My family is my support! calcutta_sweta: Smriti, can you tell us about your family? smritiirani: I am married to Zubin Irani, I am a mother of two, as I grow older, I just hope I'm as beautiful a mother, aunt and grand mother as I'm in my television soap. guest52: Smriti, I watch your show every single day and I want to be like Tulsi too... I seriously admire you and your acting and I can't wait to watch Uma Didi. smritiirani: My heart felt thanks to you, that's a lovely compliment, I hope I do justice to the role. Most importantly, we should look up to people amongst our family as they are our real support. siddharthatri: Smritiji can I be your brother from now onwards? smritiirani: Of course!, Siddharth, its nice of you to offer to step in! asdfgf_4729: Why doesn't the new serial Thodi Si Zameen Thoda Sa Aasma made in coordination with Ekta Kapoor, not starting with letter 'K'? smritiirani: It's a title I suggested keeping in mind hopes, aspiration and freedom of middle class families in independent India, I thought the title was more suitable, and thankfully Ekta agreed! calcutta_sweta: Smriti, which Mihir was good working with? smritiirani: I have always believed in being honest as honestly is the best policy, so I should avoid answering this question! calcutta_sweta: Smriti, which was your first project and how was your experience that time and what was the reaction of your family? smritiirani: I like the on going series of Kyunki…, I get lots of adulations and respect from my fans. For any female professional to get that kind of respect at work is the best feeling! ghu1993: I'm an actress in Orissa, I am 13 years old and I'm eager to act in Ekta Didi's soaps... And I want your wishes smritiirani: Best wishes on your ambition, but I would suggest you to pursue your education now as a strong education foundation equips you for the best in any profession! guest42: Who do you like the most out of all your sons in Kyunki? Karan, Gautam, Harsh or Sahil (like a son)? smritiirani: As an individual I have a history with each of them, Karan is married to Gauri (my batch mate in college), Gautam was my batch mate at school, I have had a long and good working relation with Sahil and Harsh. As mother and son relationship in Kyunki, there is one pair that is most and I would say Tulsi and Karan! asdfgf_4729: When will you come back to Mihir and throw out the idiotic Meera? smritiirani: With Meera looking prettier by the day, do you honestly think Tulsi has a chance of coming back? calcutta_sweta: Smriti tell us something which we don't know about you? smritiirani: I'm a very private person irrespective of being in public life, I've ensured to stay private as that's the least I owe my friends and family. asdfgf_4729: How do you describe success in your life? smritiirani: I would not judge success as per how big a house or how many cars one has, I would rather think that successful person is one who invests time, effort and love in his or her relationships, because that's one investment that gives you the best returns, only those with these returns are truly successful. indya: Thanks Smriti for joining us on the chat. All the very best at your new venture! Any message for your fans before we leave... smritiirani: I can hope and pray that we can bond as one unit, one family and one country! Happy you all a very Raksha Bandhan! indya: Thanks a lot! We loved it! I am sure your fans there feel the same too!
indya: Ok that was Smriti Irani on the chat on the new looking indya.com!
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18th August 2006
Smriti Irani
KUNAL M SHAH
Amidst the Heathrow bomb scare, and subsequent tightening of security at various airports, actor Smriti Irani flew to London to attend the Sky Festival.
Back home in Mumbai, Smriti shares her experience of the tour. “People thought I was mad to visit London amidst the bomb threats. But both the security personnel and the passengers were co-operative. Life goes on and we can’t sit idle at home. As I boarded the flight, there was confusion while settling down. To my surprise, the flight was packed with passengers,” says Smriti .
Recalling the entire security procedure at the Mumbai airport, Smriti further adds, “It was tough, but thankfully, I had warned my entire crew to come prepared. So, things were relatively easy as we toed the line and did not carry any hand baggage or liquid material with us. However, instead of one security check, we had to undergo three security checks before we alighted. They also checked our footwear, which they have never done before.” However, it wasn’t smooth sailing for Smriti on reaching London. She says, “In the UK, people are not used to such a detailed scrutiny. We had to wait for one hour in the queue before we could head for the security check. They were strict and two of my crew members lost their baggage. There were several such passengers complaining about their lost bags.
The security people were creating a great ruckus over passengers carrying anything liquid. Aditya and Afzal from Star India were constantly in touch with us over the phone. Since they had already informed some people back in London about our arrival it smoothened the process and at the end of the day, we all managed fine. But the excessive scrutiny and harrowing airport wait did not dampen the spirit of the festival. We were all charged up and the show was brilliant. We performed to a packed house. So, I guess it was worth the trouble,” she informs.
August 12th 2006
The Sky is the limit
KUNAL M SHAH
Smriti Irani ti Irani , who is easily amongst the most popular faces on Indian Television will have two shows of her play Kuch Tum Kaho Kuch Hum Kahen at Manchester on August 13th and 14th.
Sounding excited Smriti said, “Sky is the biggest platform for any channel in UK and it features 20 of the most prominent and far reaching channels. This year Star Plus is the only Asian channel participating in the show. It is a big milestone for me and recognition of my talent as an actor on an international platform.”
But why is she showcasing her theatre show? “I don't know,” says Smriti . “Star Plus asked me to be a part of the event and I never asked them why. To be very frank it came as a huge surprise to me but I just took blessings and decided to go ahead. The last one-and-a-half years has been very tough on me and this is a huge relief and welcome change. In fact, it's an honour.”
She adds, “Being selected for this festival has given me the critical acclaim I was yearning for. Even though my show Maniben.com was successful in terms of its box-office collections and the audience reaction, I didn't get good reviews from critics. In these six years as an actor, I have received a lot of popular awards but never any critical acclaim for my work. Now I have received this honour as an actor. After a dark phase, the sun is back in the sky. When your life is smooth and you have no complications, you become complacent and take things for granted. But I have been on my toes for some time now and this kind of step has definitely taken me to the next level.
8th August 2006
My name makes headlines’
Smriti Irani
TELEVISION’S FAVOURITE
bahu has now ventured into
production. Why?
This is my first serial with Balaji and Star TV. The kind of person that I am, I hate stagnation. How long will I go on playing Tulsi? I needed to venture out into something else, and production is something that I enjoy doing. There are a lot of technical management that goes into production and I love doing it.
So is it just the stagnation factor that has made you venture into production?
For me work is not just about money or fame. It’s about professionalism and challenges too. More than anything else, I feel that my work should be interesting enough for me to want to get back to it. I think so far my profession has given me enough challenges to keep my interest alive.
You are into acting, theatre and now production. How difficult it is to juggle all these?
I think it’s a natural progression. I have been lucky enough to see both sides of the spectrum. As a producer, I always have to be in the best of moods. Even as an actor, I do give a lot of importance to the money which is put behind a venture. I know a lot of producers who have to face all the starry tantrums on the sets. So now it’s my turn to see things from the producer’s point of view. And I’m sure I am going to enjoy every moment of it.
So did you ever throw any starry tantrums?
Well, I have never thrown any starry tantrums. I have always been a professional. I worked till my last day of pregnancy and three days after my baby was born, I got back to work. My kaamwaali bai got a month off, but I didn’t. I have always been committed. That’s why the
industry has given me so many opportunities. In an industry where you can be replaced at the drop a hat, I think one cannot afford to throw starry tantrums.
The other actors in Kyunki... had problems with the generation leap because they did not want to apply whitener. What about you?
I can’t be bothered about what the actors say and do. I’m here to do my job and that’s it. Even if it means applying whitener and looking old, I would still do it.
Will your new show follow the Balaji pattern? Well, I would say that my new show has a lot of reality in it with an Ekta Kapoor twist. I think this mix is really difficult to balance. I have always been a rebel. So after the saas-bahu melodrama, I wanted to do something that would give a break to that.
Do you think you will be able to break the saas-bahu mould? Will it be difficult?
People said the same thing when I hosted the talk show Kuch Dil Se. For one and a half years after I started my career, people knew me as Tulsi. Later due to my political and social activity, people began to refer to me by name. So I feel, I have actually broken out of the Tulsi mould a long time back. Everything that I did got the maximum media attention. So I don’t think the audience will only relate to me as Tulsi. They will accept my new character as well.
As Tulsi you have to look fat. But with your new role, you cannot afford to look very fat. What do you plan to do with your weight?
Tulsi will always be my first priority and I cannot afford to look thin. I don’t know why people are so obsessed with my weight. I need to look like a middle-aged Gujarati woman. When my baby was born, I was angry with the press reports criticising me for my weight gain. Why do women have to judged by their waist size? They don’t do that to men. After sometime, I stopped bothering. I let my work do the talking. Now I don’t mind being written about, because I have realised that my name makes headlines.
You made your transition from acting on screen to theatre. Were you ever apprehensive?
Well, I think my stint on telly helped me a lot to do well in theatre. Not many actors have the critical backup when they get on stage. But I already had that. So when I got critical acclaim for my performance on stage, it was a victory for me. People used to think that Smriti can only follow one pattern of acting. But with my Gujarati play, I managed to break my image as a serious actor. People realised that Smriti Irani can do comedy too. I think theatre is a great medium You can prove a point in front of the audience without the channel putting money behind it. There were many people who were ready to write me off even before my first play was staged. I think I have answered them all.
What can we expect next from Smriti Irani ?
As of now, I can say that as a producer, I’m here to stay. As far as direction is concerned, one needs to know the technical know-how. I have no knowledge about it. But I would not completely rule that out. Who knows, one day I may get behind the camera
21/7/06
Smriti’s new look
After Hours Correspondent
After playing Ba in ‘Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Thi’, Smriti Iraani now play a 27-year-old girl in ‘Thodi Si Zameen Thoda Sa Aasman’(Star Plus).
The weekend show co-produced by Ektaa Kapoor will see Smriti as a strong and confident girl who runs her family.
Insiders say that Smriti’s character (Uma) will have the same values and traits that Tulsi has in ‘Kyunkii…’ Of course, Smriti will look younger and slimmer in her new avatar. The show is scheduled to go on air from August 19.
Is Smriti Irani leaving her parent-show Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi? In an interview with Subhash K Jha she puts all doubts to rest.
9/7/06
Someone wants to see me go: Smriti Irani
Q: Another controversy rears it head…
A: So it does. I must be the one actor with the largest number of controversies to my discredit. This is highly irresponsible journalism. Balajee is a public-ltd company. Star is such a highly rated channel.
And Kyunkii …. is the highest revenue earner for Balajee and Star. Such false information puts everyone in a spot. How can one particular reporter quoting one particular invisible source be the reason for so much stress?
Q: Does it bother you?
A: Honestly, it hurts. For six years I've worked with Balajee and Star to get this show where it's started. My association with Star goes back to long before Kyunkii… I'm like a horse with blinkers. So I try not to get bothered with such talk.
Q: But why is there such a controversy about you every few months?
A: It all comes from one source. I don't know why. With my work-load and responsibilities I genuinely feel I don't need to react to such imaginary stories. Who are these 'sources' who claim I'm leaving Kyunkii…. How can I react to ghosts?
What's really surprising is that in all these six years doing Kyunkii, Shobha Kapoorji, Ekta and I meet behind closed doors with no fourth person in the room.
So how do people outside assume about what we talk? I guess even big stars aren't immune to speculative writing. So who am I?
Q: So who's responsible for the rumour that you're leaving Kyunkii …?
A: Someone who's extremely keen to see me go.
Q: There's no Kyunkii Saas… without you?
A: Nothing and nobody is indispensable. But someone is trying desperately to break my six-year association with Kyunkii …I don't allow myself to get pained by such ghost stories. My fans and audience do react, though.
Q: So once and for all you aren't leaving Kyunkii…?
A: I'm right now in a shoot with Balajee. So how can I leave? This entire controversy is so illogical. My character is supposed to be in Hardwar so how can I be shown in parts of the narrative that are located in Mumbai? Isn't that self-evident?
I don't even want to give credibility to these rumours by reacting. Anyone who's spreading this rumour genuinely needs a holiday. I don't think my talent can be held hostage by such rumours.
Q: It's said there's a dispute about you looking old in the serial?
A: If there was a dispute would I have agreed ? When I had spoken to you last I had told you that I had no problems aging according to the way the script goes. I must be the oldest-looking protagonist on any of the soaps.
Q: What about your other show with Balajee which you're co-producing ?
A: In it I play a girl called Uma who goes through tremendous hardship in life. I must thank my well-wishers for preparing me for this role. Jokes aside, my family channel and production house don't deserve this.
source:santabanta.com
29/6/06
‘I am waiting for Balaji to call me’Actor Smriti Z Iraani is quite upset with rumours about her quitting Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi (Star Plus) doing the rounds.
Just back from her tour of England with her play Maniben.com, Smriti says, “I never comment on anything controversial. No one from my end has spread this news of me quitting the show. I will wait for news from Balaji.” Asked about when she would resume shooting for Kyunkii…’ she shoots back, “I am waiting for them to call me for the shooting. Whenever Balaji calls, I will go.”
Incidentally, just before the 20-year-leap, rumour mills were abuzz with the news that Smriti would be quitting the show to be replaced by a new Tulsi. However, Smriti continues to be part of the generation leap and will now be the new Ba (after actor Sudha Shivapuri’s ‘death’ in the show).
Sources close to Kyunkii…’, rubbish the rumour of her leaving the show. “Smriti was supposed to start shooting yesterday. But we don’t have her track ready as of now. I am sure she will begin shooting in a couple of days,” confirms a crew person on condition of anonymity.
Smriti says that she has only shot for a few episodes in the generation leap. “I don’t know about the latest developments and am waiting to be called.”
However, a new show on Star Plus jointly produced by Smriti and Ektaa Kapoor will be on air in August. A source from the channel confirms, “Smriti will also star in the show. But we do not have a confirmation of dates.”
Mumbai, June 5 (IANS) 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' producer Ekta Kapoor is yet to find a new Tulsi for the much-talked about changeover of Smriti Irani to Ba on June 7 - and there are 60,000 aspirants. But, according to Ekta, none fills the bill.
The original Tulsi is oblivious of these developments.
'I'll know about it when Ekta tells me. I haven't sat down with her to discuss the character's graph,' she chuckles during a phone interview from Lucknow. She has been travelling in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu in connection with her Bharatiya Janata Party activities.
Smriti has also been bombarded by queries about her supposedly sour relations with 'Kyunki...' co-star Apara Mehta.
'Here I am with so much to do...where do I have the time for fights and cold wars? Really, I've nothing to say about this. I don't get into any controversy. I've no idea where (these stories) come from.
'I'd rather use my energies for my work than these absurd controversies. If I wasn't successful I wouldn't have been part of these controversies. And why would I get into any situation with Apara? She's my senior. There're no parallels in my career and Apara's,' Smriti maintained.
She closed the issue on a positive note.
'I've always worked in a spirit of trust and friendship. I've made the 'Kyunki...' set my home away from home. I do get hurt when such talk happens. But I don't allow the hurt to show,' she asserted.
Playing Ba is a challenge Smriti is up to.
'Of course I'm too young for the matriarch's role. But I look at the role as a compliment. I'm playing my age in my plays. It's during these straight-off interactions with the audience that one comes to know one's true level as an actor,' she said.
As Ba, Smriti is going to age accordingly.
'I've no qualms about aging on screen. We've seen very glamorous actresses like Sharmila Tagore, Hema Malini, Rekha and even Karisma Kapoor turning grey. So it's no big deal. Even Preity Zinta turned grey in 'Veer-Zaara'.
'Today's audience appreciates an actor's commitment. I don't put white in my hair to play Tulsi. But my whole body language suggests the character's age. And the age always shows in the hands. Those are the first parts of your body that get worn out. Those are details I'd like to consider when aging further for the soap,' she pointed out.
Smriti is part actor, part politician and part mother.
'Every working woman is a multi-tasker. I guess I'm blessed. The truth of television is the producer-director is king. Every actor is replaceable. I value the confidence in me.
'Ekta had once said something valuable about me. She said she unconsciously chose an actress who was as close to Tulsi as possible. I identify completely with Tulsi except the fact that Tulsi tolerated another woman in her husband's life. I'd have walked out. None of us has Tulsi's patience. I wish I did,' Smriti said. Though Ekta Kapoor is yet to find the new Tulsi for the much-talked changeover on June 7(Ekta's birthday) the hunt is on in Delhi and Chandigarh. According to Ekta there're 60,000 applications. But none to fill the bill. source: http://www.santabanta.com
NEW DELHI: Bharatiya Janata Party leader Smriti Irani and Delhi BJP president Harsh Vardhan courted arrest at Town Hall in Chandni Chowk on Monday in protest against the policies of the Congress-ruled Governments in Delhi and at the Centre which they said were depriving people of their livelihood, security and employment besides destroying the trading character of Delhi.
Speaking at the ``Satyagraha and Jail Bharo Movement'' organised by the party, Ms. Irani -- who had fought and lost the last Lok Sabha election from Chandni Chowk -- said an atmosphere of terror was prevailing in the Capital due to the policies of the Congress party and so the BJP had decided to express its solidarity with the people through the movement. Claiming that if the Centre and the Delhi Government so desired then a solution to the problem of sealing can be found in a day, Dr. Vardhan accused the Congress of deliberately trying to finish the industries, trade and business of Delhi since ``it wants to benefit the foreign companies by doing so''.
Declaring that the BJP would not allow this "conspiracy" to succeed, Dr. Vardhan said it would continue to support ordinary people in their fight for justice. So far, he said, a total of 108 BJP workers, including seven women, have been sent to jail.
Former Union Minister and BJP national secretary Vijay Goel called for dissolution of the Delhi Development Authority and the Municipal Corporation of Delhi and charged that both these institutions had failed to achieve their objectives and have become dens of corruption. ``Had these institutions worked with responsibility, then such a situation would not have arisen,'' he said, adding that the Union Urban Development Minister Jaipal Reddy should also have requested the Supreme Court for one year time in the sealing case
17/4/06 Success has its pitfalls, says Smriti Iraani Smriti Iraani has had three prime callings of late — acting, production and politics (and don’t discount “family”, she insists). One foot in Mumbai and the other across the country — Assam, Gujarat and soon South India, she has been crisscrossing the nation with LK Advani’s latest rath yatra, getting “involved with organisational politics at the grass roots”. The nation’s favourite bahu is not free of controversies either. Be it the debate surrounding her cutting off saas Savita’s (Apara Mehta) track in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi or the State Human Rights Commissions’s recent order against her in the Iraani versus scriptwriter Rekkha Modi case. How sure are you of not being reduced to another glamorous prop at political rallies, like other TV and film stars who joined politics? I am actively involved in organisational meetings and I raise local issues when I address rallies. This is my third term in the BJP national executive and am also a vice-president of the youth wing. Ten years down the line, you won’t be asking about my role in the party, it will be there for all to see. My company has produced plays earlier but this is our first TV production and it will be on Star Plus. The plot revolves around the aspirations of characters in lower middle-class families. It is stark and current, sans melodrama. Are you geared up for another 20-year-old jump on Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi? On the sets, I take feedback from Baa (Sudha Shivpuri) and Apara. It has been alleged that Apara’s track was ended to better yours. It’s the most idiotic thing I ever heard. Apara and I laughed about it. How much of Tulsi is you? Though I do relate to Tulsi on some issues, I never agreed with how she dealt with the Mandira issue. She forgave and accepted Mihir back. I would never have done that in real life. There have been accusations of your interference in scripting too… you seem to court controversies in abundance. Politician-actress-producerhome maker — what is the secret of your energy?
17/4/06 Smriti Irani lends glamour to anti-sealing campaign Lending glamour to the protests against sealing of shops in residential areas of the capital, TV star Smriti Irani today took part in the 'Jail Bharo' campaign of the opposition BJP.
Taking part in the protests at Town Hall, the MCD headquarters, Irani, who along with other BJP leaders was later arrested, charged the Congress government with breach of trust of the people.
"The people of Delhi had voted for Congress with the hope that it will provide livelihood, security and employment to them. But the trust of the people has been violated by Congress," she said addressing the gathering of BJP activists.
Irani, along with other BJP leaders Harsh Vardhan, Vijay Goel, Pawan Sharma and Sahab Singh Chauhan, as well as a large number of party activists, was arrested. But they were later released.
The small screen star had contested the last Lok Sabha elections from Chandni Chowk constituency, where the Town Hall is located.
Traders, meanwhile, began a five-day `dharna' at Jantar Mantar to oppose the ongoing court-ordered sealing drive.
Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) General Secretary Praveen Khandelwal said the traders have given an open invitation to all MPs, MLAs and corporators in Delhi to join the `dharna'.
Continuing with its sealing action, MCD today sealed 250 shops, desealing 160 others.
So far, 4490 commercial establishments have been sealed, while 708 were de-sealed.
04/6/06
am too young to play Ba: Smriti Irani
The original Tulsi who'll now play Ba is oblivious of these developments. "I'll know about it when Ekta tells me. I haven't sat down with her to discuss the character's graph," she chuckles from Lucknow. She has been travelling in Bengal, Tamil Nadu and UP in connection with my BJP activities.
Smriti has been bombarded by queries about her supposedly spoilt relations with her Kyunki Saas… co-star Apara Mehta. "Here I am with so much to do…where do I have the time for fights and cold wars?
Really, I've nothing to say about this. Main apne kaam se matlab rakhene wali insaan hoon. I don't get into any controversy. Jo bhi yeh sab kar raha hai bhagwan uska bhala kare. I've no idea where it comes from.
I'd rather use my energies for my work than these absurd controversies. If I wasn't successful I wouldn't have been part of these controversies. And why would I get into any situation with Apara Mehta?
She's my senior. My contemporaries are Shweta Tiwari and Sakshi Tanwar. There's no parallels my career and Aparaji's. Jisko jo karne ki ichcha hai woh kare. Zindagi bahut choti hai."
Playing Ba is a challenge that Smriti is up to. "Of course I'm too young for the matriarch's role. But I look at the role as a compliment. I'm playing my age in my plays. It's during these straight-off interactions with the audience that one comes to know one's true level as an actor."
She's proud of her role as Ba and the impact it has made on the audience. "I never allow that image to impinge on my life. I know my so-called power would be over once Kyunkii Saas … is done.
When people ask for my advice I don't think I'm qualified for it. I want to lead my life on my own terms. I'd hate to thrust my ideas on others. Live and let live. That's why such controversies have no place in my life."
She's part actor, part politician, part mother. "Every working woman is a multi-tasker. I guess I'm blessed. The truth of television is the producer –director is king. Every actor is replaceable. I value the confidence in me.
Ekta had once said something valuable about me. She said she unconsciously chose an actress who was as close to Tulsi as possible. I identify completely with Tulsi except the fact that Tulsi tolerated another woman in her husband's life. I'd have walked out. None of us have Tulsi's patience. I wish I did."
As for playing Ba, Smriti is going to age accordingly. "I've no qualms about aging on screen. We's seen very glamorous actresses like Sharmila Tagore, Hema Malini, Rekha and even Karisma Kapoor turning grey. So it's no big deal.
Even Preity Zinta turned grey in Veer-Zara. Today's audience appreciates an actor's commitment. I don't put white in my hair to play Tulsi. But my whole body language suggests the character's age.
And the age always shows in the hands. Those are the first parts of your body that get worn out. Those are details I'd like to consider when aging further for the soap."
She ends with a note of positivity on the Apara Mehta matter. "I've always worked in a spirit of trust and friendship. I've made the Kyunkii…set my home away from home. I do get hurt when such talk happens. But I don't allow the hurt to show. Because I'm supposed to be such a ruthless lady."
Smriti Irani dismisses rumours about strained relations with Apara Mehta
Smriti Irani has been controversy's child (or should be say bahu?). Be it the Rekha Modi episode, or more recently the Apara Mehta one… Irani
could have been in the news for better reasons. But the actress remains unfazed.
Speaking about her allegedly spoilt relationship with her Kyunki… co-star Apara Mehta, she says: “I have so much to do. Where do I have the time for fights and cold wars? Really, I've nothing to say about this. I mind my business and avoid controversies. I don’t know who is spreading all these rumours. And I'd rather spend my energy on my work instead of on these absurd controversies. And why would I get into any situation with Apara Mehta? She's my senior. My contemporaries are Shweta Tiwari and Sakshi Tanwar. There's no parallel between my career and Aparaji's. Let others live their own lives.”
She continues: “I've always worked in a spirit of trust and friendship. I've made the Kyunki… set my home away from home. I do get hurt when such rumours are started.”
For now though Irani will be stepping into Ba's shoes . That will happen on Ekta Kapoor's birthday on June 7 in Kyunki...
The hunt to find a new Tulsi is on in Delhi and Chandigarh and apparently the producers have received 60,000 applications but no one seems to fit the bill.
However Irani is oblivious of these developments. “I'll know about it when Ekta tells me. I haven't sat down with her to discuss the character's growth,” she chuckles.
Playing Ba is a challenge that Smriti is all set to take on. She says: “Of course I'm too young for the matriarch's role. But I look upon it as a challenge. Anyway, I'm playing my age on stage. I've no qualms about ageing on screen.”
She continues: “Glamorous actresses like Sharmila Tagore, Hema Malini, Rekha, Karisma Kapoor and even Preity Zinta have greyed on screen. So it's no big deal. Today's audience appreciates an actor's commitment. I don't whiten my hair to play Tulsi. But my body language suggests the character's age. I'd like to focus on minute details before ageing further for the show.”
She continues: “The truth of television is that the producerdirector is king. Every actor is replaceable. I value Ekta's confidence in me. She once said that she unconsciously chose an actress who was as close to Tulsi as possible. I identify completely with Tulsi except that Tulsi tolerated another woman in her husband's life. I'd have walked out. None of us have Tulsi's patience. I wish I did.”
18/4/06
It also depends on what an actor gives back to politics. Had I been mouthing my dialogues at public meetings for a lark, then I, too, would have been reduced to a show star.
Comment on rumours of you joining Congress...
Not many know that we as a family have been involved with Jan Sangh since my childhood. Joining BJP was an extension of that association. There is no question of me ever joining Congress. Tell us about your debut as a TV producer.
I have grown from 18 to 50 in the serial and am happy with the way ‘Tulsi’ has shaped up. I have never asked anyone in Balaji about the direction my role or anybody else’s was taking in these five years and more.
I was born and brought up, if not in a totally Virani-like family, in quite a similar set-up with respect for our culture and faith, as my mom happens to be from a Brahmin Bengali family.
Success comes with its pitfalls. There is no dearth of people waiting to pull you down. But I realised pretty early on that in this industry there are no friends forever.
If not Smriti, perhaps I would have been a Duracell battery! It’s the energy I have for my work that keeps me going.
NEW DELHI, APR 17 (PTI)
2/04/06 By Subhash K.Jha, Mumbai: Having signed the contract for "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kahbi Bahu Thi" on her birthday six years ago, Smriti Irani spends a part of her special day each year shooting for it. That's what she did when she turned 30 years of age last week. "As a tribute to that relationship I always work on my serial on my birthday. I need to remind myself how grateful I am to have landed myself such a splendid life-making job. There were many candidates to play Tulsi. I guess I was just lucky to get it," says Smriti Irani, television's most beloved icon, in an interview to IANS. Smriti plays the lead role of 'Tulsi' in the popular TV soap by Balajee Telefilms. "What these 30 years and specially the last six years have taught me is to keep my feet firmly to the ground. 'Zameen se rishta-naate nahin todna chahiye. Udna asaan hai zameen pe tikey rehna bahut mushqil.' "My family always told me... no matter where you go never forget where you belong to... Never be ashamed of your roots. So many people tell me to hide my pennyless past. But I feel it's a matter of pride that I gave up my parents' cushy life to struggle on my own. I chose to do it on my own. For me, that's an achievement." Considering she plays a much older woman in the serial, her age comes as a surprise to her fans. "More like a shock," she laughs. "They can't believe it at first. I would say it's a tribute to my acting talent that Ekta Kapoor considers me capable of playing a much older woman day-in and day-out," she says. "While others try to beat the clock, I'm actually running ahead of my times." Now with a generation leap happening in Balajee's most beloved soap, Smriti will play an even older woman. "I don't know what Ekta's plans are. In my six years at Balajee I've never asked her what plans she has for me or the soap... I know I can never get tired of 'Kyunki...' Ekta is smart enough to not make the serial or me boring. I know she'll never make me a lampshade in the corner of the set. She knows my worth." Not too many people know that Smriti has done a socially relevant talk show "Kuch Dil Se" or that she owns a production company. "I'm doing a Gujarati play Manibehn.com which has completed 75 shows in just two months. I play this totally uncouth woman who doesn't know the e of English language. "It's quite a challenge but a satisfying experience. The biggest challenge in theatre is to not only please the critics but also have audiences on your side. I think I've managed that with Manibehn.com. That apart I've my political office, plus two feature films, one in Bengali and one in Gujarati." About her two movies, she says: "Very honestly, I am not interested in playing Tulsi in films. Don't I do enough of that on television? If I take up a film it will have to pose a challenge beyond what I am doing. In the Bengali film I play this very angry physically handicapped jealous and petty woman. The Bengali role is radically different to my TV image. The language won't be a problem as my mom is a Bengali. "The Gujarati film is a typical masala film. I've never done anything so commercial before. It has me in a before-and-after role-two distinct shades for the two halves. The idea is to do something different in films. Otherwise why would people spend money to watch me in a movie theatre when they can see me for free at home? I can't possibly do mirror-reflections of Tulsi in films." On her schedule in the coming month, Smriti says: "In April I am co-producing some TV software with Balajee Telefilms. Then in May the 'Kyunki...' team goes to Haridwar... Yes it's full plate. But better than having an empty plate." by Subhash K Jha
is all set to don a new avatar... BT explores
Iraani is all set to turn producer on TV. Along with Ekta Kapoor, she will be producing her first serial soon. And no, it’s not a typical family drama!
EXPLORING NEW AVENUES:
The show is a social drama. “It has a lot to do with socially relevant themes like unemployment, youth and women,” says Smriti, who’s excited about her new role as producer. “It’s a high to be doing the show along with the biggest production house. So also, the fact that the story for our serial is written by Kamlesh Pandey, the writer of Rang De Basanti.” So will her serial start with the letter K? “That’s something Ekta and I will discuss and decide upon,” she says.
But, isn’t there a chance of a clash of ideas between the two? “I don’t think so. We’ve never had a difference of opinion in the six years that we’ve known each other. Besides, Ekta and I both believe in making what the audiences want to see.” How did the idea come about? “Years ago Shobhaji (Ekta’s mother) spotted me and introduced me to Ekta. That’s when I got the role of Tulsi in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. This time too Shobhaji was the one who suggested this to Ekta.”
TELEVISION VERSUS FILMS:
Smriti is set to act in two movies, one Bengali, the other, Gujarati. “They are lead roles and I’m looking forward to it.” New language has never been a problem for her, she says. And what about Hindi movies? “If something interesting comes my way, surely.” However, is there worry that her Tulsi-image will come in the way of playing younger characters? “In these movies I’m playing young characters. Also, in the new show I’m playing my real age. Besides, the fact remains that Kyunki has given me all the popularity and I will always be best known for my role as Tulsi, and I’m happy with that.”
DABBLING IN TOO MANY THINGS?
Now, will politics take a backseat? “My political work will never be sidetracked. I just returned from Assam after a campaign and now I will be leaving for Tamil Nadu. It’s all about planning things well,” she says. And on the personal front, what did she have to say about the State Human Rights Commission recently passing an order in favour of scriptwriter Rekkha Modi (Smriti had filed a complaint last year about receiving threatening calls, and the police arrested Rekkha Modi in that connection)? “I do not want to comment on this,” she says.
Smriti Irani shoots for 'Kyunki...' on birthdays (INTERVIEW)
1/04/06
Why'd people pay to see Tulsi
Her birthday last week was like any working day for television's most beloved icon Smriti Irani.
"I took my daughter to dance rehearsals in the morning, brought her home and then went shooting. I was home by afternoon. So I managed to reduce the day to a semi-workingday. Then I pretended to be oblivious to my husband Zuben's plans for a surprise birthday party. But by afternoon when I came home I was so tired, having worked non-stop for six months, that I almost dozed off."
Six years ago on her birthday Smriti had signed a contract with Balajee for Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi.
"As a tribute to that relationship I always work on my serial on my birthday. I need to remind myself how grateful I am to have landed myself such a splendid life-making job. There were many candidates to play Tulsi. I guess I was just lucky to get it."
She gets reflective on her birthday. "What these thirty years and specially the last six years have taught me is to keep my feet firmly planted to the ground. Zameen se rishta-naata nahin todni chahiye. Udna asaan hai zameen pe tikey rehna bahut mushqil.
My family always told me…no matter where you go never forget where you belong..never be ashamed of your roots. So many people tell me to hide my penny-less past.
But I feel it's a matter of pride that I gave up my parents' cushy life to struggle on my own. I chose to do it on my own. For me, that's an achievement."
Considering she plays a much older woman on Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi is it a surprise for her fans when they realize how young she really is? "More like a shock," she laughs.
"They can't believe it at first. I'd say it's a tribute to my acting talent that Ekta Kapoor considers me capable of playing a much older woman day-in and day-out. While others try to beat the clock, I'm actually running ahead of my times."
Now with a generation leap happening on Balajee's most beloved soap, Smriti will play an even older woman. "I don't know what Ekta's plans are. In my six years at Balajee I've never asked her what plans she has for me or the soap. They've been so good for me so far. I'm sure they'll be good to me in future as well. I know I can never get tired of Kyunkii…
Ekta is smart enough to not make the serial or me boring. I know she'll never make me a lampshade in the corner of the set. She knows my worth. As long as they pose a challenge for me, I'm game."
Not too many people are aware Smriti has done a socially relevant talk show Kuch Dil Se and she owns a production company.
"I'm doing a Gujarati play Manibehn.com which has completed seventy-five shows in just two months. I play this totally uncouth woman who doesn't know the 'e' of the English language. It's quite a challenge. But a satisfying experience.
The biggest challenge in theatre is to not only please the critics but also have audiences on your side. I think I've managed that with Manibehn.com. That apart I've my political office, plus two feature films, one in Bengali and one in Gujarati."
About her two movies… "Very honestly speaking, I'm not interested in playing Tulsi in films. Don't I do enough of that on television? If I take up a film it'll have to pose a challenge beyond what I'm doing. In the Bengali film I play this very angry physically handicapped jealous and petty woman.
The Bengali role is radically different to my TV image. The language won't be a problem, because my mom is a Bengali. The Gujarati film is a typical masala film. I've never done anything so commercial before. It has me in a before-and-after role--two distinct shades for the two halves.
The idea is to do something different in films. Otherwise why would people spend money to watch me in a movie theatre when they can see me for free at home? I can't possibly do mirror-reflections of Tulsi in films."
She takes a deep breath. "Then in April I'm co-producing some tv software with Balajee Telefilms. Then in May the Kyunkii….team goes to Hardwar…Yes it's full plate. But better than having an empty plate."
24th March 2006
I think I will be 250 years old after the leap!
Smriti Irani who turned 30 yesterday talks about serial leaps and political binds
Kunal M Shah
Now Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi is taking yet another leap. How old are you going to be on the show?
I think I will be 250 years old. The age factor in Kyunki… is grossly miscalculated. I have been married for so many years on theshow and Gautam has already had three weddings… So I will be 250 years old and Ba will be 600 years old!
As an actor on the show, do you approve of one more leap?
As an actor I have always loved challenges and yet another leap is definitely challenging. The show is more than six years old now and every year I have had scenes which people have talked about. So, every time I have come up against challenges I have enjoyed myself.
Apparently you were not informed about this leap by Ekta Kapoor?
I agree that I am still not aware of the description of my character and the way its going to shape up, but that doesn't bother me. Incidentally this is the day when I had signed the contract with Balaji for Kyunki… Over these six years I have never asked Ekta about my track, so why should I start now?
There is going to be a new Tulsi on the show. Does that make you feel insecure?
See, I have no idea about the new Tulsi. Finally, it's the channel's and the producer's decision. When I don't ask about my own character why should I ask about any other character on the show? As for insecurity, I have been doing this show for six years now and I think I have established myself as an actor. My character has gone through a lot. I have nothing to worry about.
How has Tulsi changed in all these years?
I think she has become fatter! (Laughs). Seriously speaking, she has gone from being the hot-tempered Tulsi, to being much more calm. Tulsi has gone through so much trauma that it shows on her face now. And yet Ekta still thinks of new ways of torturing Tulsi on the show!
Everyone says that they have had enough of Kyunki… and Tulsi's character, yet the TRPs have been steady…
Just yesterday I was performing my play maniben.com in Mulund and people came up to me and said that they are tired of watching the torture that I go through on the show. But the TRPs have not changed. I think we should worry only when we see a positive article on Kyunki… Until then I don't think we need to worry about anything.
Apara Mehta said she was unaware of her exit until she read about it in newspapers. Were you aware of it?
I came to know about it when she did. As I've said earlier, I never interfere in the tracks, mine or anyone else's, on the show.
Now, with the 20-year leap, will you have to sport more grey hair?
I am yet to get a detailed description about my look. During the last leap I told Shobhaji (Kapoor) that I should have grey hair but she didn't agree. This time I think I will convince her to give me some whitener.
How did you celebrate your birthday yesterday?
I was on the sets, working. Yesterday Zubin (my husband) had brought candles and cakes and stuff.
Do you regret getting into politics?
No. I am happy to do whatever I am doing as part of the BJP.
Are you planning to contest for a seat again?
That depends on the party, I can't take these decisions as an individual. In these last few years as a national executive in the BJP, I have done whatever I could do, for the party.
Now you are getting into television production, as well, with Ekta Kapoor.
I don't want to talk about it yet. All questions about this should go to Ekta as I would like her to do all the talking.
You are also doing films in different languages?
It's always good to do films in different languages as the more the languages, the more the options. I am looking forward to my film shoots.
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23rd March 2006 | |
Today, March 23, India's favourite bahu turns 30.
Smriti Irani, or Tulsi -- as she is called in the very popular soap, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi -- has already achieved superstardom.
The serial has achieved cult status. Throughout the country, you can find housewives discussing the latest drama in Tulsi's life, fashion trends in Kyunki and the inevitable question: When Baa will finally die.
A day before her 30th birthday, we caught up with Smriti. She spoke about the show, her life and her birthday plans. Over to her.
"It's going to be a very boring day. It will begin with the shooting of Kyunki, then I (will) watch my daughter taking dance lessons. I am keeping my evening free hoping Mr Zubin Irani (her husband) gives me a big surprise!
will be one of those rare days; I will be sitting all evening staring at him. I am sure that is scary enough for him! Zubin ends up being clumsy since there is so much pressure on him to make the day special.
On her career
Significantly, I will also complete six years with Balaji Telefilms today. It was this day when I had first got my contract for Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and another serial called Kavita.
For the past six years, I have always worked on my birthday. I always tell Ekta Kapoor that I am her oldest employee. I have stuck around for a very long time. I may become a prehistoric monolith by the time we finish the serial!
For everyone else's birthday on the sets, I am in charge of the celebrations -- to get the cake et al. But on my birthday, I run away from the cake.
Usually, my colleagues get together on my birthday, conspire and whisper (about pulling her leg) but they respectfully just cut the cake. Giving me birthday bumps is not possible as I am huge!
And nobody, except Ba, has the courage to smear cake on my face. But she also lets me go because I am three inches taller than her!
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On her birthday plans
I love books. On one birthday, Zubin got me a dozen books and wrote a small note for me inside every book.
But he was so tense, instead of writing March 23, he wrote March 20! He totally messed up the notes on all the books. And he did not even realise his mistake until much later.
Zubin does something special every year to make my birthday memorable.
My children have grown up now. My son is four (years old) and my daughter is two (years old). Yesterday, I heard my daughter practicing Happy birthday to you in her room till late evening. By the time she was done, she had a sore throat!
In the serial, Tulsi makes sure her kids fall in line. At home, my children make sure that I fall in line and march to their tune.
It's quite the opposite!
On making it big
I think when anyone struggles they think they are being short changed. And I went through my phase of struggle too. At the end of the day what I have got today in life is worth it. At least my dreams came true.
There was a point of time in my life when I just had Rs 50 in my pocket. I had very high fever then, and had decided that the Balaji audition would be my last. I took a train and got down at Mahalaxmi station (in Mumbai). I did not even have the minimum fare to take a cab to Famous Studio, so I had to take a bus.
I have attained a fair degree of success. I don't have any regrets. I am enjoying what I am doing.
On acting
I play a 50-year-old woman in Kyunki.
It doesn't matter what age I'm playing as long as I manage to play my role adequately, as long as I am able to be a part of the show that has been number one for the past six years continuously.
I think as an actor one should be ready for every challenge that comes, every kind of role that comes your way.
I never did any preparation to play the Tulsi I have been playing. So preparing to play an older Tulsi is out of question. I just follow the director's brief and the script.
The only difference I think is that I was much thinner when I started playing Tulsi. Those were the days!
On her fitness regime
Is that a joke? Do I look like the sort who would have a diet regime? You don't want to know my weight and I don't even try to diet, as I will be very miserable at it!
On the mercy killing of Tulsi's saas, Savita (played by Apara Mehta) on Kyunki
(Laughs) I can kill only certain people. I never ask Balaji what they are going to do next.
Most of the women playing bahus are my friends. Gauri Pradhan and I are batch mates. As far Shilpa Saklani, it was me who made Balaji cast her. I have been the main protagonist on Kyunki… and I will continue to be the same.
On her identity
It's not true that I am known as only Tulsi. I am known as Smriti more. Thanks to shows like Kuch Dil Se … I have made a name for myself as an individual. I have been lucky enough to break through. I have just started my production company, which has already had its first two box-office hits in terms of theatre.
I have never perceived to like a particular role. I look at projects in totality. Its never happened that I thought I want to be a, b or c in a film.
March 16, 2006
Smriti relives nani's demise
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8th March 2006
Women unite Smriti & PM wife - One bats for girl child, other for mindset | ||
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New Delhi, March 8: Gursharan Kaur, the shy, retiring wife of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, was thrust into the limelight today when she kicked off a panel discussion on a controversial issue: “Are women effective leaders?” The debate, which was part of the nationwide celebration of International Women’s Day, saw India’s First Lady addressing a packed audience of women and a handful of men. Kaur said: “The problem relating to women and girl child comes from illiteracy. We should give more importance to the girl child.” The subject turned to whether women had been able to carve a space for themselves in today’s competitive world. Kaur said: “We (women) have already begun to do that, but a lot more needs to be done. We are no less than men... all we need is enough freedom, recognition and opportunity to go ahead in life.” Sharing the dais with Kaur were Smriti Z. Iraani of the popular serial Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, actor Shabana Azmi and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Farooq Abdullah. Smriti urged the audience to work hard in “changing the mindset of women” to make them leaders in all fields. Shabana said: “We are effective leaders because we are different from men.” “Society can change. Only women can do that since we think differently from men. But for this, we need our rights,” she added. Expressing her displeasure on the portrayal of women in TV serials, Shabana took a dig at Smriti after she left midway. “Isn’t it strange that we have an entertainment industry full of women but all their roles portrayed are still very stereotyped? So, have they (women) really been able to bring about an effective change?” Speaking on similar lines, Abdullah said: “The strength does not come from words alone. Women need to be resolute and stand up for their rights and, if needed, fight for them.” In a lighter vein, he added: “All men are henpecked, no matter whatever they show. They need women and that is the truth.” |
March, 6 2006
| Smriti, Ekta to produce TV show & more scoop |
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Ekta Kapoor has always maintained that Smriti Irani, was her favourite actress. Now she has taken her fondness for this actress to the next level. The two good friends are planning to produce a television show for Star TV, which should go on air in April. But Smriti prefers to let Ekta do all the talking, calling her a “senior partner.” Apparently the two friends have been planning this show for a long time now but given their hectic schedules, it took a while for things to fall into place. And of course, Smriti, will be acting in the show too.
Smriti Irani (Tulsi from Kyunki Saas bhi Kabhi bahu thi): "I believe that we should celebrate every woman who is educated and financially liberated. Be it a working woman or a housewife. Everyday is a challenge and they are so busy looking after their kids, husbands and in- laws that they rarely take time off for themselves. Its nice if they celebrate this day that is made available exclusively for women. On this day I will be delivering a lecture on Womens Empowerment in Delhi. I get inspiration from my mother and books like Little Women."
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March 05, 2006
In conversation with Smriti Irani
Anuradha SenGupta: Smriti why did you shop on a busy day which is going to start at 8 and go on till atleast 11? Why would you take time out to shop vegetables? I wouldn’t do it.
Smriti Irani: It is a part and parcel of my daily life, my routine. I am extremely finicky about my household chores, I would possibly leave only one item for my maid to go and fetch from the market.
Anuradha SenGupta: Smriti, you live in Lokhandwala, this is where the call and the five rupee worth of Dhania patta comes to your doorstep.
Smriti Irani: Lokhandwala, because of the real estate prices also has a steep price when it comes to the veggies. I think it is a very middle class habit that you will haggle for your Dhania - nahin main teen rupaiya doongi (No, I will give only three rupees.)
Anuradha SenGupta:You are the typical Bombay success story, isn't it? Most of the people know how you came here with little or no money. You borrowed from your dad, you worked at McDonald's and today you are the face of Indian television, isn't it? Do you think that we all contribute to the myth that 'Bombay is the city of dreams'? Is it really the 'city of dreams'?
Smriti Irani: I feel it is the 'city of possibility' more than the 'city of dreams'. If you have the will and if you have the talent, atleast it gives you that one chance to make it. The idea is that you should be ready and alert when the chance happens. For a lot a lot of people I think that opportunities go by. I was actually lucky enough to realise when the opportunity knocked at the door and I opened the door and welcomed it. So, Bombay if it cannot be called the city of dreams, it can atleast be called the city of possibility.
Anuradha SenGupta: You have already reinforced and underlined, your middle class background, the middle class approach to life - picking up sabzi (vegetables), the haggling - why do you need to do this?
Smriti Irani: I need to constantly remind myself where I came from; I don't want to forget that because it is very easy to forget in the whole dazzle and the glamour of my job.
Anuradha SenGupta: Does it tie in with the fact that you want to be a political leader? Do you want to be seen always as a person who is in touch with the middle class?
Smriti Irani: As a human being, as a person, per se. I am not dressed as a politician. I am wearing my jeans and I am wearing my shorts because it is the most convenient thing to dress in when I am running around my kids and fetching my veggies and going to work. But as a person, I need to very deeply stay connected to my roots and what I am as a person. It is very easy to get caught up. The minute I land now, there will be 20 people who will stand up to say 'Good Morning'. There will be 20 people who will be waiting to take my autograph, there will be another 20 who will be telling me how good I am as an actor. It is very easy to lose perspective when you are there, and I have seen a lot of people do that. Begin as a different person and end up as a total different personality.
Anuradha SenGupta: I am curious, did you come here to be an actor or did you come here to be a beauty queen? You did participate in the Femina Miss India.
Smriti Irani: I came to be free. The only option that I wanted for myself was to be a journalist actually. I did apply and I got rejected. So, the minute one rejection came, I thought that this is not going to happen as far as I am concerned.
Anuradha SenGupta: When you see all the news reporters and all the news channels these days, do you still feel a sense of envy?
Smriti Irani: I would genuinely trade in my job, any day, to run behind and get a breaking news through.
Anuradha SenGupta: I can understand why you started with Kyunki, because it was your break; why you started with Kyunki, because it was this phenomenal success; can't understand why you are sticking with it in 2006, six years later?
Smriti Irani: Today I work in a work force, which comprises of close to 250 families. And these are the people with whom I have built up a relationship with, I know that if I don't report for work, then there are a lot of daily wage workers who lose out on their day's salary. As of now, I am sticking to the project because it still gives me an opportunity to grow.
Anuradha SenGupta: Is it really giving you an opportunity to grow?
Smriti Irani: I am playing older and older in terms of age and it is nice to experiment.
Anuradha SenGupta: Everybody has said that you have the drive, you have the focus, you have the killer instinct. How can someone like that be happy doing the same thing? I don't buy you saying that I am playing an older woman and a still older woman, how is it a challenge?
Smriti Irani: But then, I am doing other things as well. I am not restricting my entire life or my profession to Kyunki.
Anuradha SenGupta: So, acting is not your first love?
Smriti Irani: Acting or being a part of the media is my first love. I wouldn't say that acting precisely, but being a part of the media business is my first love. It has come about to be the only love that I have, in terms of a profession. But I am not curtailing my entire professional career to Tulsi or just Kyunki. I have also indulged in theatre.
Anuradha SenGupta: But you are curtailing your acting career, theatre is recent. Do you not admit that it is time to re-invent yourself?
Smriti Irani: I have done theatre for the past one and a half years. Before that I have done about eight shows, including Kuch dil se, in different formats. There is lots that I have done in the past six years apart from Tulsi. But because, in most of the projects I play my age, it takes a minute for people to realise that it is me.
Anuradha SenGupta:If I were you, and if I had this opportunity, I would use the clout that I have; the most favoured star status that I have at Balaji; my personal association that I have with the producer of Balaji Telefilms, Ekta Kapoor; the mass following that I have to break new boundaries.
Smriti Irani: I have never been the kind to use clout. That is what distinguishes me. I didn't, I never did and I never will.