NEHA HARSORA has been making a terrific mark on Indian television, particularly with her standout lead role in the hit serial, Raazz Mahal: Dakini Ka Rahasya.
The talented young actress is following up that challenging fantasy drama with a lead role in the newly launched show, Udne Ki Asha, opposite Kanwar Dhillon. She is, not surprisingly, feeling confident about her new Star Plus serial and looking forward to entertaining a fast-growing fanbase.
Eastern Eye caught up with the rising TV star to discuss her journey so far, new show and future hopes.
What first connected you to acting?
My mom always wanted all my siblings to be in the acting field. Her dream and enthusiasm for having all her kids on screen made me try acting. A friend of mine was also into acting. I thought if he can act, I should also try to get roles in serials. That’s how I got full time into acting. My family and friends supported me fully.
Tell us what it was like working on Raazz Mahal: Dakini Ka Rahasya?
Raazz Mahal... was quite a unique experience as it was my first lead role and involved exploring and facing various challenges like [working in a] period drama, using chroma screens [for special effects] and even horse riding. The constant engagement with heavy costumes and jewellery, along with the opportunity to transform into a male character using makeup, presented an amazing learning curve for me.
What do you like about your series, Udne Ki Asha?
The show is undoubtedly worth watching. I felt emotional while reading the script. I believe Udne Ki Aasha will deeply resonate with the audience because it’s based on a realistic portrayal of a person. Everyone in the audience can connect with Sailee’s character and her story. What I like the most is the natural look they’ve given my character; it feels so authentic. People won’t feel that we are acting, as it’s so genuine. The show has the potential to create a strong connection with the audience.
Tell us more about your character in the show?
My character, Sailee, was born and brought up in Mumbai and she dreams of owning a small flower shop. Juggling multiple responsibilities, including selling and delivering flowers, she prioritises her three siblings. Sailee possesses the courage to overcome challenges and is not afraid to speak up.
How do you approach a character?
Before portraying any character, under standing their personality, situation, characteristics and daily life is crucial.
For this particular role, I delved deep into the character’s world, learning to drive a two-wheeler and overcoming my fear of caterpillars to appreciate flowers. I even acquired the skill of making various hair accessories like haar, mala, and gajra.
This character demanded a lot of learning and personal growth, making it a fulfilling experience.
What do you enjoy watching as an audience member?
I enjoy watching something that’s relatable, where I can connect with the storyline. Even if I can’t relate to it directly, it should feel authentic.
I prefer content grounded in reality and avoid anything that feels over-thetop or random. Whether it’s portraying real-life situations or creating a narrative that makes you believe it happened to a particular person, that’s what really engages me.
Do you have a dream role?
I’m open to all kinds of projects and don’t have a specific dream role. Playing diverse characters in different genres brings me joy. I appreciate the opportunity to explore various roles with each project I undertake.
What inspires you as an actress?
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has been my favourite since childhood. I adore her grace, mannerisms and acting skills. While I can’t be exactly like her, achieving a level of talent similar to hers would make me really happy.
If you could master something new, what would it be?
I want to master dancing, although I didn’t get the chance before the show due to another project. That said, I’m content with my work.
Tell us something about you that not many people know?
There’s nothing significant because I believe I’m consistent in my behaviour. I am always myself, so there’s nothing specific that people should know about me.
Why should we all tune into Udne Ki Asha?
I believe everybody should watch Udne Ki Aasha because it resonates with the aspirations everybody can connect with.
I can say the character I am going to play will certainly relate to people from all walks of life.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.