Deeya Jale in Laado - Interview

Actress Roshni Chopra's sister Deeya has appeared as Sonali in Naa Aana Iss Des Laado as the spoke in the wheel (read Raghav-Sia's love story). She says, "Sonali is exactly like me. I studied in Dubai for 10 years and then came back to India; my parents taught me values and traditions. I am very broad minded and in real life too I dress like her. I prefer wearing casuals with less make up."

She was the first choice for the show. "They called me two weeks back; they wanted me to audition immediately. I was in Delhi and it was not possible for me to be here at such a short notice; so I informed them. I think they too were in a hurry, therefore they chose someone else. I came to Mumbai and I got a call from the production house again. The next day I went there and began shooting. I feel the role was meant for me! I didn't get any time to prepare myself but as I said she is exactly like me, so did not have to try hard."

Deeya is happy being part of an established show. "I was not apprehensive. I was confident on the first day; I never felt out of place. Laado is number one and it has vast audience reach so what more could I have asked for. But I admit I was nervous doing my first scene with Meghna (Ammaji), as she is completely different from her character in real life. After that, it was ok."

Deeya confesses to have never watched the show. "Due to the late night slot I did not get a chance to watch it; however I was well informed about the story. I had read a lot about female foeticide and how these practices against women exist in real life in parts of Punjab, Haryana, and Chandigarh and other places."

Her character is primarily a cameo. "They have given me a brief saying it is a cameo but I know how it works in daily soaps, so it is completely based on the feedback my character will get. Now there would be a few more romantic scenes between me and Aditya (Raghav), so hopefully the viewers will like our chemistry together. Last when I entered the show the ratings were high and if they continue like that, I think my track will get an extension."

This is Deeya's third show on television. "After Hindi Hai Hum (which was telecast on Real and received a tepid response) I was travelling. I had been to the US and then I was in Delhi for some time. I was getting offers for shows and I was picky about them. I did not want to do shows on channels like SAB or Star One as their viewership is less and when you work round the clock you want your efforts to be recognised, especially after the experience of Hindi Hai Hum. So when Laado was offered to me I was keen in doing it because of the channel."

Like sister Roshni, is she too interested in hosting? "I am more interested in participating in reality shows, especially dance-based. I am passionate about dance. I am not sure about hosting. I am a trained dancer, was with Shiamak Davar for three years. I would love to be part of something like Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Further I believe in doing one thing at a time, so I will accept any other show only after my role in Laado wraps up."

Deeya got her first break in Left Right Left, when the second batch of cadets was introduced in the show.