Manoje Biddvai back in action

The complete overhaul of Rajshri’s Productions’ Woh Rehne Wali Mehlon Ki has opened a window for actors who’ve been keeping a low profile. Cashing in big time is Manoje Biddvai who is set to play a pivotal role in the Sahara One show. An elated Manoje says, “I’ve been longing to work with the Rajshris for a while. Earlier, we couldn’t work together either for lack of a suitable role or time constraints. Finally, things have gelled for us. I was touched when Sooraji (Barjatya) narrated the character brief to an actor like me. The new track is wonderfully scripted and I’m sure the viewers will accept it.” Speaking on his character, Manoje quips, “I play Shubham, the only son of Manav (Vinay Jain) and Pari (Reena Kapoor). He’s a cancer specialist. There are different shades to Shubham. He’s a lot matured than his age. He’s in love with a girl but since his world now centers around his adopted young sister Rani (Neha Janpandit), Shubham is committed to her well- being first.” An entire new star cast for a running show implies the start of a new show itself. Manoje though is unperturbed. “Woh Rehne.. has been the driver show on Sahara one for three years. It’s a challenge for us to keep the viewership intact. However, the story demanded freshness and with a very strong script I’m sure viewers will accept us.” Manoje was keeping a low profile after his show Salaam Zindagi went off air abruptly. When asked what went wrong, he replied, “I am still clueless as to why Salaam.. went off air. In fact, it all happened within 24 hours. At the time of its closure Salaam.. was still drawing a TRP of 1.00, which was about the same as that of the channel (Sony).” Was this the case with Meri Awaaz Ko Mil Gayi Roshni too? “Well, I‘m clueless about that too. But on Star Plus, we were at least given a time frame to improve,” he sighs