Jaya Bhattacharya reveals why she did not work for 7 years

Actress Jaya Bhattacharya needs no introduction. From films like Devdas to Mimi, and TV shows such as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Thapki Pyaar Ki," the seasoned actress has proven her mettle and carved a significant place for herself in the Indian entertainment industry. Now, she is all set to captivate audiences with a new character in Sun Neo’s newly launched show Chhathi Maiyya ki Bitiya. Jaya portrays the role of Urmila, the stepmother of the male lead Kartik (played by Aashish Dixit). Urmila's character holds deeper complexities that will unfold as the storyline progresses. Known for her portrayal of antagonistic roles on TV, the actress recently revealed why she chose not to work for seven years.

Jaya Bhattacharya shared, “It feels like the word ‘Negative’ is written on my forehead. I have been offered more negative roles in my career so far, as the first negative character that I played that got famous, Payal from Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, people thought that I cannot do any other roles. For this reason, I did not work for 7 years. I started having bouts of doubts about my talent, I started questioning myself whether I am an actor or not? Do people not feel that I can play other roles as well? Hence, I decided not to work for 7 years. I didn't want to only play negative characters, I wanted to play diverse roles and portray a complete character, which makes an artist feel happy and satisfied. If similar roles are offered, the artist gets bored as there is nothing to apply. If not completely different characters, one should allow the artist to experiment in the negative roles. For example, Gulshan Grover brings in different tastes and flavors in his roles. When a variety is offered, only then the character is known and makes a place for itself in between the audience.” 

She added, “If the same thing is replicated, if there is no freshness in the character, and is expected to play a similar character with similar style and traits, for how long will the actor be able to justify their characters? Eventually, they will get bored, right? Artists should get the fodder to feed their hunger for putting the best foot forward always. There should be some differences in the characters they play on screen, only then we will be satisfied and will be able to justify our roles, and feel happy that we did our best we could. I’m happy that I’ve got a good character in Sun Neo’s Chhathi Maiyya ki Bitiya.” 

Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya is a heartfelt family drama that follows Vaishnavi (played by Brinda Dahal), an orphan who reveres Chhathi Maiyya (portrayed by Devoleena Bhattacharjee) as her mother. It marks the first depiction of the revered Goddess hhathi Maiyya on Hindi television, known widely in Bihar and UP. The show celebrates the triumph of good over evil, emphasizing faith and devotion to Chhathi Maiyya, who protects and guides her worshippers through life. Starring Devoleena Bhattacharjee, Sara Khan, Jaya Bhattacharya, Vrinda Dahal, and Aashish Dixit, Chhathi Maiyya Ki Bitiya airs on Sun Neo, every Monday to Saturday at 7 PM.