Not enough dedication, discipline among TV actors today

Actor Manasi Joshi Roy became a familiar face in Indian households with her performances in popular television shows such as Saaya, Gharwali Uparwali and Kkusum. Her portrayal of Sudha in Saaya (1998-99) and Chandni in Gharwali Uparwali (2000-03) earned her widespread recognition. However, at a time when her career was thriving, she chose to step away from the spotlight.

After a 14-year break, Manasi returned to television with Dhhai Kilo Prem in 2017. Looking back, she says the absence was largely a conscious decision.

“The reason I haven’t been around as much as I would like to be is due to two reasons. One, it has been a voluntary break and two, there haven’t been interesting roles coming my way,” she says.

Now, with multiple opportunities emerging across television, films and digital platforms, she is preparing for a more active phase in her career.

“I hope to change it soon as I’m in talks with several different mediums. It is an interesting world now with many available options. I’ll be back on screen soon.”

Working with Husband Rohit Bose Roy

One of Manasi’s recent projects, Locked In Love, brought her and husband Rohit Bose Roy together professionally. While the experience was rewarding, she admits it was not always easy.

“It is extremely difficult because you don’t behave the same way with your family as you do with a stranger, especially not with your husband.”

Creative disagreements were inevitable, she says, because both have strong opinions.

“There were, of course, a lot of creative differences because we are two very strong people with strong opinions. But a lot of positive energy got created as a result.”

Choosing Acting at a Young Age

Unlike many actors who describe their careers as accidental, Manasi says acting was always her chosen path.

“When I was probably 13 or 14, or maybe even before that, I knew I wanted to be an actor.”

She recalls telling her father about her decision at a young age and never wavering from it.

“Acting, to me, is not a profession. It is my passion, my legacy. I grew up with acting and I’m proud of it. Nothing gives me more joy than acting.”

Growing Up in a Family of Actors

For Manasi, belonging to a family deeply rooted in performing arts has always been an advantage.

“It is a big boon. Just too wonderful. It is always great to have like-minded people around.”

The family’s acting legacy begins with her father, Arvind Joshi, who was a celebrated Gujarati stage actor, director, writer and producer. He acted in more than 100 Gujarati films and performed in over 50 plays.

“Our acting roots are in our father. That is where Sharman and me got our acting genes and decided to be actors.”

Her mother, Usha Joshi, was a banker but was also actively involved in theatre as an actor and producer. Manasi reveals that her parents first met during an inter-collegiate drama competition.

The family’s artistic lineage extends further. Her uncle, Praveen Joshi, was a renowned actor-director, while aunt Sarita Joshi remains one of the most respected names in Indian theatre, television and cinema. Cousin Poorbi Joshi is also part of the entertainment industry.

“There is a lot of energy when we all get together,” she says.

How Television Has Changed

Having spent more than two decades in the entertainment industry, Manasi has witnessed significant changes in television.

“We all know that change is inevitable and should always be embraced.”

However, she feels today’s television industry lacks some of the dedication that earlier generations of actors brought to their work.

“I feel bad that there is not enough dedication and discipline among television actors today towards their craft.”

According to her, acting should be driven by passion rather than the pursuit of fame or money.

Why She Studied Psychology

Although acting was always her goal, Manasi’s father insisted that she complete her education first.

She initially wanted to study literature because of her love for books. However, she eventually developed an interest in psychology and earned a degree in the subject.

“I enjoyed psychology too, so I switched. But reading still remains my passion. It is something I’ve inherited from dad.”

She believes her understanding of human behaviour through psychology has also helped her as an actor.

The Story Behind Kiara’s Little Free Library

Away from acting, one of the initiatives closest to Manasi’s heart is Kiara’s Little Free Library, a community-driven project started by her daughter.

The idea originated after Manasi read about the concept in an issue of Oprah Winfrey’s magazine in 2014. While going through the magazine, her daughter Kiara noticed an article about a Little Free Library and immediately became interested. “She came to me and asked if we could build one like it. I had read the article and the same thought had crossed my mind too.”

What began as Kiara’s idea soon evolved into a community initiative involving the entire family. “It was Kiara’s enthusiasm and passion that created this library. However, we all are involved in it as it is a community project.” Even as Kiara moves ahead with her studies, Manasi says the project will continue. “The Little Free Library will keep going on as it has impacted the lives of many en route.”