Actress’ mom is her rock, taking role of mother and father
DURBAN actress and drama teacher, Maeshni Naicker, has her number one cheerleader right by her side.
She’s there during auditions, at moments when she’s feeling low and definitely side by side during the successes.
“That’s my mother, Veda, she is always there, praying for me, encouraging me and lifting my spirits,” said Naicker, who played the role of mom Shanti in the hit film Keeping Up With The Kandasamys.
Naicker, who lives in Chatsworth, said Mother’s Day had a special meaning in her family, because her mom played the roles of both mother and father.
All alone
“My dad passed away when I was seven, and my mom was about 30.
“She had three children to care for, now raising them alone.
“But she persevered, she was our rock and made sure she did her best.
“She went to work, bought a car, took us on holidays, and in fact also made sure she carried out all the dreams my dad had for us which they had spoken about.
“He had enrolled me in drama classes and after he passed away my mom made sure I continued with classes and was instrumental in everything I am today,” said Naicker.
Entering the world of arts and entertainment, as a career, said Naicker, was usually not well-supported by parents.
“My mom did not tell me at any point that I could not pursue it as a career, she was so supportive of me.
“I did venture into teaching, but even after I graduated I continued with my passion for acting,” she said. Naicker said they were so close, that if she was stressed at an audition, her mother would stress with her.
“This industry is so tough, I am blessed to have her support,” she said.
Of her role in the hit movie Keeping Up With The Kandasamys, Naicker said she was happy to play the role of a mother with two sons.
“I’m single, so it was great to play this character and it made me realise how special it is to be a mother.
“My nephews Maylin, Jashlin and Mataeo are my babies, as is my two-yearold pit bull Cube.
“They all keep me on my toes,” said Naicker.