We can’t have a Ram Rajya in India- Neha Narang

Neha Narang who you have previously seen in Phir Subah Hogi, Lakhon Mein Ek, Sasural Genda Phool, Shubh Vivah etc has been playing the protagonist Roshni for almost a year now in Doordarshan’s Ek Kiran Roshni Ki . In the show she slips into a role similar to what Munnabhai’s role was in the movie Lage Raho Munnabhai. In the serial she plays a simple girl who admires Mahatma Gandhi and strives to follow his teachings. She faces many problems both in and out of home which she confronts with truth and non-violence. We called up the actress for a brief chat. Does she follow Gandhiji’s teachings in real life? She answers with a laugh, “A little bit.” What does she like about Bappuji’s teachings? “I admire the fact that he was a believer in truth, non-violence and hard work.” Does she think that all of The Father of the Nation’s teachings are applicable in contemporary India? “Many of them are applicable but some of them aren’t. For instance we can’t have a Ram Rajya in India because if we do a reality check there aren’t people as virtuous as Lord Rama. It is also not possible to travel on foot as much as he would do. We can’t boycott all foreign goods either.” Doing this serial has been a uniquely different experience for her. “It is great to do a serial on social issues which involves no rona dhona whatsoever.” Does she prefer working for Doordarshan or private channels? She gives the expected diplomatic reply, “I have liked working for both.” After we probed further, she revealed, “In Doordarshan shooting is less hectic as we have a considerable bank. The episode is telecast a fortnight after shooting or after even a longer time.” When Neha isn’t shooting, she visits restaurants, reads, watches movies and goes shopping. We wish her all the best in her professional and personal life.