Mona Vasu on playing a woman with lesbian tendencies in Yudh and working with the Big B
Chaya Unnikrishnan (DNA; July 12, 2014)

I’ve been exploring various things — I did an independent film called Maajhi, acted in the play Two To Tango, Three To Jive and wrote for TV. When I was approached for Yudh, it was hard to say no — I was getting an opportunity to work with Amitabh Bachchan and Anurag Kashyap! That’s the reason I took this up. You need to take your time and pick your shows wisely.

Apart from Bachchan’s presence, what was it about Yudh that appealed to you?
The character (also called Mona) is very interesting. She is the media relations head of a construction company owned and run by Amitji. She’s this young, sprightly, self-made woman who’s a go-getter. The track is also interesting — how her personal life gets muddled with professional issues. She has to make certain choices which may not be right, but are necessary.

Is it your most challenging role so far?
I wouldn’t say that, because every character I have done had its own challenges. But this character has a bi-curious streak — she is kinda exploring her sexuality (leaning towards lesbianism), something I haven’t done before. You have to totally orient your mind in that direction. That was definitely challenging. Also, it will be first time that the Indian audience will be exposed to this aspect in a Hindi TV serial.

How was your first day, shooting with Big B?
My first day was a scene with Mr Bachchan. It was funny and embarrassing for me. I had this huge, ugly pimple on my upper lip and I was like, ‘No dude, this is not done!’ However, I doubt if Amitji even noticed it. My first shot was an office scene and I was telling him about some trouble with a flyover. Amitji is full of enthusiasm, has a great sense of humour and is truly inspiring. He would rehearse with us like any other actor.

How would you look at your journey on TV?
I am pretty glad with my growth as an actor. I tried to make every character different. When I did my first serial Mili, I was really naive. I played a tomboyish character, very upfront and bindaas. In my next show Radhaa Ki Betiyaan..., I was a very feminine, innocent small-town girl trying to make it big. Then I did Iss Jungle Se Mujhe Bachao, which I won and thank God for that because bahut mehnat ki thi. I had eaten all sorts of things, including insects! In Parichay, my character had grey shades and in the end became negative. I played the b**ch and had fun doing it. I think I am closest to that character! (laughs).

What changes have you seen in the TV scenario?
I am very happy with the format of finite series. That way we can safeguard our creativity. With endless soaps everyone is drained out. With shows that have a limited number of episodes you get more options. And if it clicks with the audience, you can come back with a second season.