My in-laws should respect me’

My in-laws should respect me'

Playing the spunky bahu of 'Thodi Khushi Thode Gham' comes naturally to actor Deepa Parab

Sudipto Chattopadhyay

What made you play the rebellious bahu in 'Thodi Khushi Thode Gham' (TKTG)?
As a person, I am very much like Sneha. My previous roles in 'Meet' (village girl), 'Reith' (tragic character) and 'Choti Maa' (negative shades) were not me. So I had to 'act' while playing them. But playing Sneha is fun.
What is your take on marriage and the joint family system?
I come from a conservative Maharashtrian family. Marriage, to me, is a holy institution. I am totally against live-in relationships. Respect is most important in a marriage. The same would apply to my equation with my in-laws. I'd love to continue acting after marriage and would expect my in-laws to respect my thoughts.
So, is marriage on the cards?
As of now I don't have any plans of getting married. But if I meet the right person, I could get married within two days, two months or two years!
Who would be your dream co-actor?
Undoubtedly Naseeruddin Shah! He is an institution! To learn acting, all you need to do is watch his films.
What roles would you have loved to play?
One would be that of Smita Patil's in 'Arth'. She emoted through her eyes. Also, since I am a trained Kathak dancer, Rekha's role in 'Umrao Jaan' would be ideal.
Which small-screen character has impressed you?
Dr Simran's role in 'Astitva - Ek Prem Kahani'! Nikki Aneja did an excellent job with it. The characters in the soap were treated in an exemplary manner.
What are your other interests?
I hardly get any time off from work. But I am not complaining since I am a workaholic. But I do enjoy reading.