'You never really know what fuels controversies' -Sonali Bendre

The ravishing Sonali Bendre returns to the screen as a judge on Sony's Mr. & Ms. Television. In An Interview, the stunning beauty speaks about the show, her take on reality shows and what the future holds for the belle.

What made you take up the judges’ chair on Mr. and Ms. Television?

Mr. and Ms. Television has a different and interesting concept. It includes a lot more than just mere singing and dancing. Another thing is that the duration of the show is just nine days so it is very convenient for me. It’s also interesting to see such well known faces in a different persona. And being on this show, I can be judgmental without thinking that ‘oh my God, I am being too judgmental about others’.

How does it feel to make an appearance before the public after such a long hiatus?

It feels good. In fact when I saw myself on television, I was stunned as I looked completely different. I failed to recognize myself and I just have to get used to being on the screen again. But on the whole it feels nice to be back.

There are a myriad of reality shows coming on television; what is your take on them?

I think reality shows are something that are very interesting and connect a lot to the audience. I really love all the drama associated with the reality shows.

What do you have to say about the controversial issues associated with these reality shows?

When it comes to those controversies, you never really know what actually fuels such controversies, whether it is the media who make an issue about the controversy or if it is done by the production house behind the reality show. And frankly we have been very uncontroversial in this show. We do have disagreements, but they are usually open discussions.

So can you tell us something about the concept of Mr. and Ms. Television through a judges’ perspective?

The concept of this show is completely different. In this show we will be seeing well-known television faces who are vying for the title of Mr. and Ms. Television. All these actors have always been known for the characters they have played in their respective television soaps. With this show, the viewers get to see their favourite stars coming out of their comfort zones. Like for instance, I had always seen Nausheen as Kkusum and when she performed here, I was quite stunned. And that is the interesting part about the show.

At the end of the show, you have to select one couple, so what aspect are you looking at when choosing the winner?

Basically what Madhur and I do is write down the marks after each episode, so at the end of the day it is basically all about the calculations. We mark them as individuals from our point of view, not as a couple, and that is where the marking helps us.

So what do you have planned after the show ends in nine days?

I have nothing planned. I have received a lot of offers but right now my main priority is my child. I feel that the first five years are the most important of any child’s life. My husband is also busy with his work and unless I can get a job where I can manage with my child I have nothing new in mind.

And will Sonali Bendre’s fans see her anytime soon on the silver screen?

Honestly, I don’t when they will see me back on the screen. Right now I am content in spending time with my family and supporting my husband while he makes his baby, Drona, which is taking quite a long time though (laughs).