Anita Hassanandani returns to her old self

Anita Hassanandani

What's a love story without a dash of drama? Three months after the popular daily soap, Hum Rahe Na Rahe Hum, went on air, developed a fan base, and Shivendra (played by Jay Bhanushali) and Surilii's (Tina Datta) lives had just begun to settle down, the makers introduced a new twist. Enter: Anita Hassanandani, who will play the role of Shivendra's jilted lover. Unlike her previous characters, Hassanandani is playing a positive character in the show. "Television has always been my first love. Despite staying away from acting for the last few years, I have followed some shows, including Hum Rahe Na Rahe Hum.

It has a compelling [storyline]. I share a good rapport with the existing cast. [They made] me feel comfortable and welcome. It was an opportunity for me to come back to my old self as this is a positive role," says Hassanandani, who essays the character of Roshini in the serial.

Tina Datta and Jay Bhanushali

Elaborating on her role, the actor says that she is thrilled to play a "level-headed character", who has re-entered Shivendra's life to question his decision of giving up on their love. "Roshini is a blast from the past. She is overwhelmed [by Shivendra's new-found love]. Roshini believes in having an open and honest conversation with Shiv about her feelings and concerns about being jilted in the past, rather than making assumptions or accusations," says the actor, who returns to television after a three-and-a-half year maternity break.

Hassanandani adds that she identified with her character's practical nature. "Roshini possesses profound emotional strength and a great deal of love. With multiple layers and a compelling backstory, she has experienced her fair share of challenges, making her a fascinating character. She has genuinely sparked something within me, and I can strongly identify with her. Other than that, I am a sucker for love stories. With the show, I am getting to strike the right balance between work and mommy duties."