Dolly Sohi: Babhi interview

"I am far more practical than Saroj"

Dolly Sohi, who entered as the lead in Star Plus' Bhabhi from its 160th episode has come a long way playing the afternoon soap queen on Star Plus. Right now though, she is busy preparing for her wedding to Avneet Dhanoa, an NRI. Prashant Golecha spoke to the reticent Dolly to discover that she's as unlike Bhabhi as chalk and cheese!

What kind of a person you are off-screen?

I am emotional, romantic, kind and understanding. I love to laugh a lot unlike Bhabhi's Saroj. I am far more practical than Saroj who is impractical, sacrificing and crying all the time!

How come you keep a low profile unlike other TV artistes?

It's not intentional. But I hardly go to parties, nor do I network much. Besides, I don't dance at awards functions and stage shows like most others do!

Do you feel trapped in Saroj's character?

Yes. I often wear only sarees when I go for functions, thinking people might think me a show off if I wear western clothes. Normally though, I love to wear jeans and long skirts. I would ideally love to work in a comedy show like Office Office!

And how did you meet Mr Right?

My fianc is an NRI software engineer from Canada, Avneet Dhanowa, originally from Jalandhar. It's an arranged match. I met him for the first time at a filmi party, where Preeti Sapru introduced me to him. His aunt called my parents a few days later with the proposal. He's coming down to India soon, to prepare for the wedding on 4 March.

Did the fact that he is completely bald affect your decision to marry him in any way?

(laughs) I had mentioned to Preeti Sapru when she introduced us that "this man is 'ganja'". It was Preeti who told me that shaving your head is the in thing in Canada these days. I told her people might mistake him for a prematurely bald guy here in India. Anyway, I have told Avneet to grow some hair before marriage!

What do you like most about him?

His innocence and smile! The best thing about him is that his heart is as clean as his clean shaven head!! (laughs).

Would you continue acting after marriage?

Yes! But it will depend upon my in-laws too. I won't leave my producers in lurch though. If I have to quit the show, I'd inform them in advance.

Do you think TV actresses' careers are affected after marriage?

Yes, people assume that actress would be occupied with their personal life. Well, priorities do change. I was offered Zee's forthcoming Sindoor twice but couldn't take it up due to date issues.

Why haven't you worked with Balaji Telefilms after "Kalash"?

Balaji had offered me Kesar and even Kya Hadsa Kya Haqeeqat. But I couldn't take up the roles due to date problems. Perhaps they now feel I not interested. The fact is I would like to work with Ekta Kapoor again!

How you are managing your shoots and marriage preparations?

I just beg my production people to leave me alone for two-three hours so I can do my shopping! I have already shopped for jewelry from Jhaveri Bazaar and for my trousseau from Benzer and Amarsons.

What would you have been if acting hadn't happened?

I always nursed ambitions of being an athlete. (laughs) I couldn't become one but am going to make sure that my kid does!

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