‘I sometimes inspire myself’

PLAYING the lead role in more than 500 episodes of hit drama serial Saath Nibhaana Saathiya 2 connected Sneha Jain to audiences around the world.

The talented 28-year-old actress is looking forward to building on that success with more challenging roles.

Eastern Eye caught up with the versatile small screen star to discuss her journey, future hopes, inspirations, dream role and the best advice she ever got.

How do you reflect on your acting journey?

Hard work pays off. So, I worked hard and blindly towards my dream, and one day I made it.

What has been your most memorable moment?

Seeing myself on a huge screen as a heroine for the first time, with my mother sitting next to me. After seeing my entry, we exchanged looks and just cried. That was memorable.

What was it like to be starring in Saath Nibhana Saathiya 2?

Amazing. The prime-time Star Plus show is a huge brand. The fabulous journey taught me so much as an artist and human being – it enabled me to become a better version of myself.

What is the plan going forward for you?

I don’t want to just grab anything. Saath Nibhana Saathiya 2 was amazing, and people appreciated my performance as Gehna. Now I just don’t want to do something for the sake of it. I want something different and big. Whether it is film, TV or OTT, I’m open to everything as an artist. I’m taking my time to find a good project with a strong character which will help me grow as an actor.

Sneha Jain

Do you have a dream role?

I’m a blue belt in taekwondo. So whenever I see a sports movie, I go crazy and want to do it. I’m a big fan of action movies, so I really want to do a project where I’m a sports person or a fighter.

Who would you love to work with?

There are so many people. I want to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali sir. I’m a big fan of his. I know it’s a big thing to hope for, but I would love to work in one of his projects. He creates precious diamonds and gives new life to an artist. I think he would do that for me. Working with him, whether on a film or drama series, would be the best thing ever for me.

What do you like watching as an audience member?

I enjoy thrillers or something suspenseful,which keeps you guessing. I also love cute love stories and comedies. Ultimately, I love cinema and can watch anything because I can learn from every movie, story and actor.

What inspires you?

A lot of things. My family are a big inspiration because I have seen the journey we have gone through to get here. There are a few actors who are very good friends of mine and have made it to movies with big banners. They inspire me. We’ve been in the same circle, struggled together and have grown day by day. It inspires me that if one of us can reach  there, then I can too. My friends, family and good performances inspire. Even I myself inspire me.

What is the best advice you ever got?

My mom taught us from childhood that ‘this is your life. You get it once, so go enjoy it and live it to the fullest, but make sure that you don’t hurt anyone emotionally, physically or mentally.’ I follow that beautiful advice and try and practice kindness.

Finally, why do you love being an actress?

I love acting because it’s so beautiful. You can live another life, go on someone else’s journey, and feel what they are feeling. You can explore multiple emotions, but bring out those same ones from other people, whether it is crying, laughing, anger or something else. People can feel or express those emotions because of your performance and that’s beautiful. Being in front of the camera gives you those endless possibilities. I just love that.