Daily soaps don’t excite me anymore: Mandira Bedi

NEW DELHI - Television actress-turned-host Mandira Bedi says she has no interest in doing daily soaps and insists she is happy hosting shows.

“I don’t want to do television soaps. I have been receiving many offers where people ask me to at least listen to the scripts but it doesn’t excite me any more. I would rather enjoy being a host than act,” Mandira told IANS.

She was present in the capital along with husband Raj Kaushal to launch 92.7 BIG FM’s new show “Thoda Personal”.

Mandira started her career in 1994 with the lead role in television serial “Shanti”. She also played a supporting role in 1995 blockbuster film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge”.

She made a re-entry on the small screen when she portrayed the villainous character of “Mandira” in the popular Indian soap “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi”.

After “Kyunki…”, Mandira went on to hosting musical reality shows like “Fame Gurukul” and “Jo Jeeta Wohi Super Star” among others.

She was also part of “Extraa Innings” in the 2007 Cricket World Cup and presented the coverage of the 2010 Indian Premier League cricket on British channel ITV in March.

When asked what has been keeping her away from daily soaps, Mandira said “there is nothing like Shanti”.

“There has not been any role like ‘Shanti’ which has inspired me. It’s only when I feel that I can add value to a television show, I agree to be a part of it. It should appeal to me and fit into my scheme of things,” she added.

“There has been some very progressive and some very regressive shows. Television is the mirror of society. You want people to get inspired. But there are many shows that are taking you backwards. You need to take a step forward rather than moving backwards,” she added.

Meanwhile, Mandira is busy banking on her svelte figure.

“I have been busy shooting for magazine covers of late. I have got into a decent shape and I am cashing on my abs as long as it remains,” she said.