"My character in 'Yeh Moh Moh Ke Dhaage' has a huge scope of growth." - Benaf Dadachandji

Benaf Dadachandji rose to popularity playing the physically handicapped, Baby Thakkar in 'Baa Bahoo Aur Baby' (Star Plus). She was then seen in varied shows like 'Choti Bahu 2' (Zee TV) and 'Sumit Sambhal Lega' (Star Plus). 

While she is currently seen in 'Yeh Moh Moh Ke Dhaage' (Sony TV) as Saanvi, Benaf spills some beans about her stint in the show and her career.

Benaf, after your stint in 'Sumit Sambhal Lega', you were on a brief break. What all did you do in your sabbatical period? 

I was traveling. Also, I was working on other creative things. I am creating a product which is in the process of being manufactured.

What excited you to play a part in  'Yeh Moh Moh Ke Dhaage'?

The primary reason I took up the role is because the set is located in Film City which is close to where I reside. Secondly, I play a character which is complex in nature. It has many layers and has a huge scope of growth. It has been a long time that I have played a Gujarati character. The last I enacted was in  'Baa Bahoo Aur Baby'  and 'Yeh Moh Moh Ke Dhaage' offers me a chance to re-connect with some shades of the character.

You were known as Baby for your show, 'Baa Bahoo Aur Baby' for the longest time in your career. Tell us your fondest memory from the show. 

The entire show was a fond memory and I would love to relive it. It was my first show and it made me famous. That is one of the reasons, the show is extremely close to my heart. I learnt to treat every human being equally and that people who suffer from diseases should not be seen with eyes of sympathy but should be treated as normal beings. 

In 2014, we saw you in a Bollywood movie, Bobby Jasoos which starred Vidya Balan. How was it to work with her?

It was an amazing experience. It was not just Vidya but Supriya Pathak, Tanvi Azmi and many others whom I had a great time with. We were like a female gang! We used to talk alot and our director used to shout at us. 

Talking about Vidya, she is an amazing actor. She is so down-to-earth and talented. She used to come prepared with her lines on the set. She is also a wonderful person. 

Could you tell us about your look in 'Yeh Moh Moh Ke Dhaage'?

My character is a widow. So basically in Kutch, a woman is required to wear black clothes if she is a widow. My look has a very dark texture and I love it. I think I look really beautiful and it has become my comfort wear. 

Tell us a bit about your fans. Any experience with a fan which you can never forget?

It was during 'Choti Bahu 2' that a fan named Zeeshan used to visit me on the sets every week. He used to bring my photographs and take autographs on each one of them. I think he is one of those craziest fans I have ever encountered.

What are the pros and cons of being an actor? Do you have any regrets? 

I have no regrets whatsoever. One only thing is that you can't plan anything at the last moment. You have to inform the production house well in advance before planning anything. Otherwise, it is a lovely profession. Also, success in this profession is luck-based.

What are your hobbies?

I love visiting old-age homes and spending time with old people. One new thing that I have started is walking. It is not a hobby, it is a compulsion.

How do you destress yourself? Please share.

I sleep for ten hours at a stretch whenever I get time. Apart from that, I watch movies and different shows to destress myself.

Well said Benaf!