The veteran actress is all set for a television comeback
Veteran actress Poonam Dhillon is all set to make a television comeback as a lead protagonist in Sony Entertainment Television’s upcoming fiction show ‘Ekk Nayi Pehchaan’. It is a story which redefines the relationship between a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law and tells us how two women can become each other’s strength rather than downfall. An official adaptation of the popular Gujarati play ‘Sharda’, scripted by renowned Gujarati writer Varsha Adalja, Poonam talks her heart out about her comeback.
What kept you away from work for so long?
My family commitments. My kids were small. So, I had to take a break. Unfortunately, I didn’t have parents or any other support system, so I had to raise children on my own. I was too consumed with their studies, lifestyle and daily chores that I didn’t have time for anything else. Now, my son (Anmol) is graduating and daughter (Paloma) has cleared school. So they urged me to return to work and think that I have done enough for the family.
Why did you choose TV as a comeback vehicle?
There was no dearth of offers. In fact, I find television extremely time-consuming. Shooting schedules are long with hectic duration throughout the months. However, it was quite an instinctive decision. I think time, script and my will, all were in place.
What did you like about ‘Ek Nayi Pehchaan’?
I chose ‘Ekk Nayi Pehchaan’ because of the channel, production house and the script. I think TV is going through a transition where positivity is taking over. Over-the-top and cruel mothers-in-law are out of trend and there is an urge to look positive and hard working on screen. ‘Ek Nayi Pehchaan’ is about women empowerment where an illiterate woman learns and adapts to a demanding life.
Were you hoping to make a comeback with some specific roles?
When you are away from limelight for ages, you aren’t offered to play glamorous characters. But I don’t have qualms playing elderly characters but they have to be gripping and interesting. Industry is going through good times and it’s all about the characters rather than age and glamour.
How did theatre happen?
My friends say that I have a knack of refusing things. So, I kept saying no to everything that came my way. Sooraj Thapar, who is also paired opposite me in this serial, narrated me the script of ‘The Perfect Husband’. He then wanted to enact a particular shot. I was bowled over when I saw that scene. Things looked different on paper and in action. So, I gave my nod to do theatre. We did many shows abroad.
How has industry changed over the years?
It has got better. It has become more professional. But that personal touch and emotions are missing. Earlier, we were very friendly and would do films for friends. Anyways, I had certain good qualities and I don’t want to change that.
