Ratan Rajput is quite satisfied with her TV journey so far. Starting with Radhaa Ki Betiyaan Kuch Kar Dikhayengi. Her call to fame was Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo. She also featured in Bigg Boss 7 and is currently doing Jai Santoshi Ma on &TV. GR8 caught up wth this cute gal for a quick interview…

Enjoying the mytho bit in Santoshi Ma?

It is a socio mytho, I am playing a simple girl so my story is restricted just to the drama bit. The mytho part is being enjoyed by Gracy Singh and Sayantani Ghosh. I have already essayed a historical i.e. Mahabharat, but mytho is yet in my bucket list. 

You have been around for some time now?

It has been 8 years now, but I feel I have not even scratched the surface. This industry always makes you feel fresh, as you start a new project from the scratch. 

What kind of roles will you be looking at from now on?

I have done only 3/4th, so there is a lot more to explore. I am looking at both real and fantasy characters which are experimental as well. 

What do you feel are the attributes essential for success out here?

Accept whatever happens for the good. You also need to dream properly, last but not the least trust your raw talent. Sadly many out here focus on their weaknesses thereby losing valuable time. If you work on your positives and pay attention to the glitches, over time they will automatically iron themselves out. It is very important to be yourself. I am Ratan and can never be Aishwarya Rai.

Were you at first awe struck by glitz and glamour of Mumbai coming from a smaller town (Patna)?

I would say not awe stuck, but found this city to be fast, no one has time. Hailing from a small town you don’t have enough money to afford the luxuries this city provides. You are spending more time and effort proving yourself for we don’t want to let down the support of our family which we earn with great efforts. Forget family even neighbours have expectations, which you can’t ignore.

Do you want to shine on the big screen as well?

Why not as you are presented very beautifully on the silver screen. The production values are also richer. 

Does the rat race affect you?

According to my folks, I have achieved much more then my dreams. So now I live for myself. 

You work for money or creative satisfaction?

Both, sometimes I work for a lesser price if the role is meaty enough. While at other occasions, the kitchen in my three bed room flat compels me to take up a character which don’t give me a kick as well.

You have very modern bold fashion sense; does it not raise eyebrows back home?

I prefer Indian outfits when in Patna, but girls there have become much more modern now. I love saris and I am most comfortable in shorts and t-shirts. The latter might not look good, but it works for me.

Your TV swayamvar Ratan Ka Rishta did not work out?

Abhinav Sharma and I took time and realized that we could be good friends but not husband-wife, hence called the engagement off. Even now we are in touch. I know he is holidaying in Chandigarh.

Did you handle it well?

Yes, more maturely than our ages. There was no game. Neither did we over do it.

Many say it was just for publicity?

People will say what they wish and sadly the blame will always fall on the girl.

Can we see you settling down soon?

Let me put it like this, I still dream of marriage. Fortunately or unfortunately, I am still single.

Describe your ideal man?

Being a family oriented gal, a career oriented hubby will not work. He also needs to accept me as I am and understand my dreams. 

- Anil Merani