Näive to Negative:Karishma enters Virasat

Where were you, we haven't seen you on-air for a while now?
I just took a break, I have been waiting for a good break. The role of Natasha Chopra is a cameo that will last for 3-4 months as per the current plans. Like all soaps, if this character clicks, the role stays or not. After Paalki, I have been very selective, this is very different. That's the reason why I choose this, I want to do only good work with good production houses.

What's Karishma Tanna as a person?
Karishma is completely different from an actor, she is not an actor from her heart. She is very impatient and very caring at the same time, she thinks about everyone but herself. That's a drawback of my life.

How did acting happen to you, did you plan to be one or was it an accident?
No, I had never planned it. In my family, education is given the first priority. After my graduation, I was about to take up MBA, though I knew it would be very boring for me. That's when I was asked to make a portfolio, I though I should give it a shot and got my portfolio done. I sent my snaps only to Balaji and luckily Balaji clicked. Within a week I was called for auditions, and MBA took a back seat.

Are you trying to break away from the mould you had in Kyunki where you played the naive girl - Indu?
I think I already have, I worked on Paalki where I played an out and out mature character of a pativrata bahu, like Tulsi. But I think the image of Indu is seated deep among audience. I hope people will accept me in the new role in Viraasat.

Karishma you are back in news with a role in Viraasat… Tell us about the character you play in Viraasat?
I play Rohit's college friend - Natasha, they had the kind of relationship that was famous in their college days. The friendship grows into one-sided love from my side and Rohit is unaware of that. Rohit returns to India for his business and loses touch.

Natasha now, has just been divorced and has come to India in search of work. She is planted by Rishab Lamba (Aman) to break Rohit's marriage. As of now Natasha is very helpful, positive and friendly. She will stand as Rahul's support and later will come to prick their relationship.

How does it feel to be pit against Sangita Ghosh, who has become a household name for her sensuality... Does that make this role more challenging?
I think working with all actors is a challenge. I think it's about how much confidence one has, I completely believe in myself and it's all about the way I present myself and people will definitely notice it. I will not do anything out of the world to look more beautiful or to stand out.

All of a sudden, you have moved from playing naive to negative... What next, any other upcoming projects?
As of now, I am doing only Viraasat and am looking for some good work in a good daily or a weekly. I'm also doing a English play called The Perfect Wedding. It's directed and produced by Vandana Siblani.

Of the three leading men in Viraasat - Aman Verma, Amar Upadhyay and Rohit Roy... If given a chance in real, who would you want to go out with?
No one, I can't relate to any of them, I don't know them as yet. I will need to know the person I go out with.

Karishma, it's nice to see you back on screen, welcome back! Any message for your fans who were looking out for your return?
I hope my fans keep loving me for the work I do and keep watching the shows I am part of. All the best for your future! Thank you.