'Balaji is family to me'

Meet telly actor Anita Hassanandani in a a tete-a-tete with Riya V Anandwala.

Tell us something about your upcoming movie project?
I’m looking forward to my new film Dus Kahaniyan. I haven’t started shooting yet but I’m really excited. I will be sharing screen space with a phenomenal actor, Nana Patekar. It’s such a high.

Are you acting in any movies down south?
I have done many Telugu films. Right now, I’m not doing any. After giving hits, I have made quite a few mistakes by accepting mediocre films. So now, I’m focusing on quality rather than quantity.

Which do you prefer –Telugu or Hindi movies?
Both are equally good. But films down south are technically stronger. Also, they have a bound script, which leaves no scope for any changes and the budget is fixed.

Here, in Hindi movies, the films are glossier. The only hitch is the time factor. Everything, right from production to distribution, takes time. The industry says it’s changing for the better, let’s see.

So what's new on television?
I have just shot for a pilot for Star. It’s an anchor-based morning show. I don't know whether it will be made but it’s related to health issues.

Any roles with Balaji Telefilms?
I had taken a break from television. I’m now doing a cameo in Balaji's Kayamath. Ektaa (Kapoor) is a brilliant creative director; she keeps discussing roles with me. I will take up a Balaji show in the next three months.

What about offers from other production houses?
Balaji is family to me. So why work outside? Well, there have been a few offers from other production houses, but nothing great. Without a doubt, Balaji is the best producer, so I’ll continue doing their shows.

How has the journey been so far in showbiz?
Life has changed every minute. I’ve learnt so much all through my journey. I’ve learnt how to dress up. I was very reserved, I’m more open to meeting people and making friends now.

Television has changed so much today. Look at the title montage of Kabhi Sautan Kabhi Saheli and compare it with Kayamath..we are technically rich now. Television rocks and that's the fact.

How has Eijaz Khan influenced your life?
It’s a new relationship for me, a special change in my life. Earlier, it was only work, but now I give more time to our relationship. So that I get to know him better. But that’s not the reason for my break from TV.

When did you know it's love?
(Blushes) Our relationship began on the sets of Kavyanjali. Since we’re both reserved individuals, we took time to open up. On the sets, we used to be together for hours. It’s only gradually that we developed feelings for each other.

We’ll be soon completing a year of togetherness. My parents have some clues about this, but right now, we’re just dating each other.

You look ravishing in your new slimmer look, how does it feel?
I’ve always been plump. And that has always bothered me. I have started dieting and exercising. Now that I’m thin, I feel much more confident about carrying off any outfit.