After her stint with reality shows like Bigg Boss and Desi Girl, actor Monica Bedi will now be seen in filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s debut show on television, Saraswatichandra. We talk to her about this project.

To be part of Sanjay Leela Bhansali show is a big deal. How do you feel?
I am excited as this is my first fiction show. To work with the right banner and channel is a blessing. I play an interesting role —  unlike any character I have done in my 125-film career. It’s new and challenging at the same time.

Tell us about your role as a stepmother, who is also the vamp.
I don’t play a vamp per se, as it isn’t a typical negative character. This role has grey shades. No one’s perfect in real life. No one is like the bahus they show on TV who suffer quietly or like the villains, who are always negative. I play the role of a stepmother — a powerful character who brings changes and twists in the story. Audiences will be surprised to see me in such a role. 

Did you meet Bhansali for this role?
I was shooting for a film in Punjab when Mr Bhansali called. He said he has a powerful role, so would I like to work with him? I was like, ‘Wow’. He told me the role was his favourite and he’s writing it himself. I have been a big fan of Mr Bhansali and the vision he has for his films. He puts a lot of effort in his work. He goes into details of the sets, look, styling, even the design on the pallu of a sari. His passion has been inspiring.

After reality shows, you must have had offers for TV...
Yes I have been getting offers but nothing outstanding came my way. I didn’t want to do a run-of-the-mill show. Regular saas-bahu roles don’t excite me. This was a project with a difference, so I took it up.

You have done a few Punjabi films but we haven’t seen you in any Hindi film lately. Why?
Nothing exciting has really come my way. I don’t want to do anything just for the sake of being there.