The relevance of an actor isn’t always determined by the number of projects she takes up but rather by the quality of their work. So, when Manasi Joshi Roy selects a show, it must tick all the boxes, and above all a strong character. Last seen in Yeh Jhuki Jhuki Si Nazar, which ended in June last year, she is back on TV as the protagonist in Kyunki Saas Maa Bahu Beti Hoti Hai (KSMBBHH).

She says, “My work on television may be less in terms of quantity, but I take pride in being associated with some memorable shows. I debuted with Ramesh Sippi’s Gaatha, followed by Saaya, and Gharwali Uparwali. After Kkusum and Nach Baliye, I went on a 12-year hiatus due to the lack of exciting opportunities until Dhhai Kilo Prem. During this period, I spent quality time with my daughter Kiara and also busied myself creating content with my husband Rohit. What excites me to return is my love for acting. It’s not a job for me and when I am offered an exciting role like Ambika in (KSMBBHH), nothing can stop me from being back on the sets.”

From the days of weekly shows to dealing with the constant pressure of meeting tight deadlines when shooting for a daily soap, Manasi has seen it all. Talking about the transition, she says, “After being part of weeklies, I returned to television with the daily soap Kkusum. While we lament the loss of that golden era in Indian television, change is inevitable, toh yeh bhi badlega. Today, we have OTT, which is like an extension of TV and is delivering interesting content we watched on television decades ago. I guess we have to be happy with what we have at the moment.”

On the personal front, Manasi is proud of her daughter Kiara’s academic achievements and has equal admiration for her husband, actor Rohit Roy’s journey in showbiz. At a time when marriages and relationships are falling apart, the actress boasts a strong relationship of 24 years. She says, “I think commitment towards each other and being one unit is what keeps marriage intact. There is nothing Rohit or I would do to harm the unit. That’s how we have been throughout.”

Rohit opened up about financial struggles due to no work. So, did it ever prompt Manasi to step out for work? “Not at all. Rohit has been the provider. I knew going to work wasn’t a necessity for me, and I could decline shows that wouldn’t pique my interest. We have always helped each other grow in work. He came across a brief phase when he didn’t like what he was being offered, and I would always tell him it was normal. No actor hasn’t seen both highs and lows. I told him he had to sustain himself, wait, and hope for the better. Of course, it helps when you have financial stability because you can afford to say no and make the wait for the right offer easier. I am glad we could be in that position,” she replies.

He has also spoken candidly about letting the initial success get to his head. “That happens when you become the heartthrob of the nation at a younger age, and he tasted that during Swabhimaan. He is intelligent, aware, and always willing to change. I never had to tell him anything. He has faced challenges and done it all on his own. He has been the wind beneath my wings,” she says.