Roop Durgapal has gone for a total makeover. Says the actress, who recently quit telly show Balika Vadhu, “I have been spending all my free time working out and honing my singing skills. Gymming has helped me lose oodles of weight. I have also coloured my hair in a lighter shade and cut it stylishly. You see, I had started getting bored of my natural jet black tresses. In short, I wanted to look different from my character in Balika Vadhu.” She is happy that her friends and family have liked her new look.

Interestingly, though Roop has taken a break from acting, she is busier than before. Says she, “I took this break thinking I will get a lot of free time, but it has not been so. I have been busy attending events in India and abroad. At a recent fashion show in Dubai, I walked the ramp for renowned desi and Pakistani designers. Later, I rushed to Indore for a political event. I have also been shooting for print and TV commercials.”

So, what kind of a role would it take for her to return to acting? “I am open to all strong and positive roles. But yes, my dream role would be that of Durga -- played by Sanjeeda Sheikh -- in TV series Ek Hasina Thi. I hate roles that portray women as victims -- helpless and passive.”

- Jigna Shah