Exploitation of TV actors should stop: Giaa Maanek

The pretty and petite Giaa Maanek is a talented actress who can play different roles with aplomb. The actress, who won the hearts of the viewers as the soft spoken and demure Gopi Bahu in Star Plus’ Saath Nibhana Saathiya, is being appreciated as the vivacious genie Jeannie in SAB TV’s Jeannie Aur Juju (Eagle Films).

We trudges on the sets of the SAB TV show and corners Giaa for a candid talk. Excerpts:

How has your experience in Jeannie Aur Juju been like?
(smiles) Well, I am enjoying being part of this show as I am getting to play so many characters on a daily basis. Each one has a new look involving a different makeup, hairstyle and costume. In fact, I am blessed to be a part of this serial.

Could you tell us something about your co-star Ali Asgar, who plays Captain Vicky?
He is great fun to be around with. Having an experience of many years in the TV industry, he is an amazing actor.

The fantasy element is regaining popularity on Indian television. Comment…
Make-believe, that hadn’t been too predominant on Indian television for a while, is regaining popularity now. This genre adds novelty to a show, which in turn appeals to a greater audience comprising of all age groups. It is a welcome change from the usual staple diet that Indian television offers.

Is a comedy show more fun to execute than a saas bahu saga?
(pauses) It is great fun to make people laugh for a change. Also, I could slip into Jeannie’s role very fast. On a daily saas bahu soap, there is drama, controversy with negative characters trying to sabotage the protagonist which in turn takes away the mirth quotient to quite an extent.

Do you mean to say that playing Gopi on Saath Nibhana Saathiya was less fun than playing Jeannie?
Not at all, I loved playing Gopi and had got into her character in a matter of two months. She was an adorable character which I had thoroughly enjoyed essaying. Gopi and Jeannie are as different as chalk and cheese. Nevertheless, it is equally fun playing these polar opposite characters.

If a genie granted you three wishes, what would you have wished for?
I would wish for a permanent genie in my life, my parents’ happiness and a soul mate who truly loves me. In this competitive world, it is difficult to find a person who genuinely loves you and isn’t selfish or diplomatic.

What has the fan response for Jeannie Aur Juju been like?
The fan response has been absolutely amazing. While Saath Nibhana Saathiya was mainly watched by housewives, Jeannie Aur Juju is watched by people of both genders and all age groups.

If we were a genie in real life how would you use your power to help humanity?
I would help mankind by helping to correct wrongdoings whenever I came across one.

What is your dream role like?
I would have loved to play Kareena Kapoor’s role as Geet in Jab We Met.

What kind of a role would you never do?
I am open to doing any kind of role as long as the character I am essaying has depth. If I am offered a vamp’s role, I will accept it too as long as I am convinced that it is a good one. Monica Bedi, for instance, plays such a sophisticated vamp in Star Plus’ Saraswatichandra so convincingly.

What in the TV industry would you like to change?
(Gives a thought) I think that the exploitation of TV actors should stop. They are made to work for prolonged hours. Newcomers are the worst target. Especially when debutant actors are signing a contract, they should be very careful that they aren’t signing one which leads to taking undue advantage of them.