The art of comedy

Tele Talk

I have resigned myself to the fact that I am destined to spread laughter through comedy,” says actress Shruti Seth (whose repertoire includes hit sitcoms like Shararat, The Suite Life of Karan and Kabir, Colors Comedy Nights Bachao...) as we connect in suburban Mumbai for a quick chat in the wake of the smashing success of her latest telly outing, The Great Indian Family Drama.

Shruti features in the show along with actresses Anita Hassanandani and Ada Khan. “Over 20 episodes have been aired so far and have met with a great response. I share a good rapport with the entire crew, having worked with behind-the-scenes team on other shows earlier. There is a certain comfort level. The format of the show is quite exciting, and different from what I have done earlier. But even though my act spans about 15-20 minutes, I love it,” she says.

What about films? Since she has acted in blockbusters like Fanaa and Rajneeti, doesn’t the desire to be more on the silver screen take over... “I am not mad about movies, I believe my character should be substantial, the role needs to excite me enough to take time away from being with Alina (her daughter),” she says simply. “I miss acting in films, but honestly, I am not that hung up on films that I will go ahead and play any odd role. I don’t really have a problem with sticking to comedy on the small screen as long as I am enjoying myself and making money!”

Married to Danish Aslam (filmmaker of Break ke Baad fame), Shruti is also busy bringing up her little daughter. “Both of us loved the name Alina as it means ‘light’ in Greek, ‘beautiful’ in Russian, ‘noble’ in Irish... It suits our daughter perfectly,” says Shruti. “Danish is an absolute hands-on father. Except for feeding Alina, he has done everything from changing diapers to bathing, massaging, burping the baby and even waking up in the night to comfort her,” she says fondly, speaking of her husband. “I feel, as a mother, I still tend to get a little hyper, extra-emotional, and over-reactive when it comes to Alina. Danish is a great calming influence,” says Shruti, the love for her family glowing in her eyes.

Of course, her parents live close by and chip in with that pivotal support when she is away at work. “Nana nani form a great support system. There is nothing like having your own parents chipping in with the upbringing of your kid. I am lucky to have them around at such close quarters,” she says honestly.

What has been her biggest lesson as a mother? “I feel motherhood taps a part of you that you never knew existed. It teaches you how to enjoy being simply senseless at times. It is a magical experience. There are no days off, no fixed hours, but it is a wonderfully rewarding experience. Every moment spent with Alina makes the sleepless nights worth it.”

Back to television. What does she watch on the idiot box? “I have stopped watching television as there is hardly any time. It is like watching one episode over five days as I usually knock off watching television, after making my child sleep. But never mind,” she smiles. “No complaints, I have watched enough telly over the years and am thoroughly enjoying my second run with work. No promises in stone, but at some point I would want to adopt another child.”

So, do we see her in the next edition of Bigg Boss? “Oh, I wouldn’t be able to do a show like Bigg Boss. I am sure it is an amazing social experience, offers great exposure for all those who are a part of it, and brings in greater clarity and focus in an individual, but it is certainly not my cup of tea.”

Shruti is a happy soul. As her twitter handle reads: “A sybarite gypsy made of funny bones & rose tinted retinas. Full time mother, actor, TV presenter & emcee, consumed by gluttony & wanderlust.”