Playing negative feels different: Reema Lagoo

Reema Lagoo is known for playing the quintessential mother’s role in films such as Hum Aapke Hain Koun ..! (1994) and Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999). However, the 58-yearold veteran actor has surprised audiences with her portrayal of a negative character — a possessive mother — in an ongoing TV show. Apparently, it wasn’t decided that her character would turn a villainess when she signed on for it. Lagoo says, “TV is unpredictable and one never knows how a role might shape up as the show and story move forward. I am playing a negative role for the first time. I won’t say I am enjoying it but it sure feels different. I am happy that there is so much to do on the show. There are many shades to my character, and that’s exciting. The role is strong and powerful, so it’s a good experience.

Lagoo now admits to realising “what it takes to pull off such a performance with conviction”. She says, “As audience, we wonder how does the actor perform a negative role or say mean lines. I used to think the same, and now, I realise that one has to get into the skin of the character and not retain your personality. One has to change their acting style and approach to deliver a good performance.”

While diversion from her usual good mom roles might have upset fans, she has also received encouragement. “The audiences understand that I need variation too. People have told me that this role is tough and I am doing a convincing job,” she says adding that working long hours on a serial does take its toll. “It’s a challenge. It’s a commitment which I am fulfilling. Initially, it was tough but I am used to the timings. In fact, now my workload has increased as I have more scenes.”

TV is unpredictable and one never knows how a role might shape up as the show and story moves forward. REEMA LAGOO, ACTOR