Last year around August, Neha Mehta, who played the role of Anjali Bhabhi in the show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, quit and she was replaced by Sunayana Fozdar. In a chat with Bombay Times, Sunayana talks about how challenging it was to step into a character, which was essayed by another actress for 12 years.
What was the most challenging part about playing Anjali bhabhi?
Ever since I was chosen to play Anjali, questions on the replacement haven’t stopped. I was very clear from the beginning that I would work on the character through my eyes and not on the basis of how someone played it for so many years. I am not a newcomer and I have done many shows (Belan Wali Bahu, Adaalat, Ek Rishta Sajhedaari Ka) before this. I am glad that I got the opportunity to be a part of this show and I could add my flavour to the role. I feel a character is above any actor and we need to remember that. Rest is for the viewers to decide how comfortable they are seeing the new Anjali bhabhi.
In an earlier interview with BT, Neha Mehta had said that she would love to come back to the show if the audience wanted her back. Are you aware of this?
I have no clue. It has been almost eight months since I am playing Anjali. If Neha Mehta wants to come back to the show, then it is entirely producer Asit Kumarr Modi’s call. I am no one to comment on it.
Viewers feel that your look and styling is quite similar to what the earlier Anjali looked like on the show. Didn’t you want to look different?
From costume to styling, it is the creative decision of the team. I understand that people have a lot of expectations from the character but I decided to just go with the flow and do what I felt best. Besides, how can I bring any change in the character’s look, if the makers have a particular perception about it.
From costume to styling, it is the creative decision of the team. I understand that people have a lot of expectations from the character but I decided to just go with the flow and do what I felt best. Besides, how can I bring any change in the character’s look, if the makers have a particular perception about it.
Since Disha Vakani hasn’t returned to the show, do you feel the pressure on other actors is more in the show?
From costume to styling, it is the creative decision of the team. I understand that people have a lot of expectations from the character but I decided to just go with the flow and do what I felt best. Besides, how can I bring any change in the character’s look, if the makers have a particular perception about it.
Since Disha Vakani hasn’t returned to the show, do you feel the pressure on other actors is more in the show?
I haven’t met Disha. And Disha’s comeback is again something only the producer can speak about.
