Television is easy money: Shilpa Shetty

After four years, Shilpa Shetty returns as a judge on dance show Nach Baliye (Star Plus). Shilpa Shetty says, What I like is that the contestants aren't professional dancers for a change. I have judged shows where at least one contestant is a professional dancer. This show is about...

Is TV an easier alternative for film stars? Is it easy money?
TV works for me, as I have to shoot fewer hours - one day a week. It's fantastic. It's great money. But you can't compare TV and films: judging a show is for three months, while you slog for four-five months for a film. 'It's a full-time job to be a mother'

Why did you choose Nach Baliye?
It's a great brand. And it's widely watched. What I like is that the contestants aren't professional dancers for a change. I have judged shows where at least one contestant is a professional dancer. This show is about couples and their relationship.

Is it difficult to judge celebrities, who aren't trained dancers?
I will know that through the show. We have shot just one episode, and I'm blown away by some of the performances. Especially by Bhabhoo (Neelu Waghela) and her husband.

Another contestant, Smita Bansal, delivered a baby three months ago and still looks so good. I thought I looked fantastic after delivery seven months ago, until I saw her (laughs). I'm just a judge, but she's performing.

Will you be the strict judge on the show?
You can't plan these things. I won't be acting on the show. With me, what you see is what you get.

Will we see your husband Raj (Kundra) dancing on the show at any point?
Star (Plus) can't afford Raj! Only I can make him dance (laughs).

Are you looking at signing films too?
It's a full-time job to be a mother, while striving to be a good wife. For me, these are important things. At work, I want to be the best.

I don't bring my home on the sets. I also have my business -my spa, salon; plus, the Rajasthan Royals matches will start soon, and we are working on that. I'm also travelling to London for the New Year. I have my hands full right now.