Leena Jumani is very happy with her negative avatar in the Zee TV show Kumkum Bhagya. “I love this genre for I get to play various shades i.e. vampish, kiddish, obstinate etc.Tanu is a human and she reacts differently to various situations.”
Ask her whether she carries the negativity home or switches on and switches off with ease, and she avers, “It is not about switching off; it is more about your approach. I have always had a clinical style. Also I have played very simple characters before. So it does not mean that I become one that I play. And If I play a man snatching vamp, will I start doing it in real life as well? Having said this, you do need to absorb the character to get the emotions right. This is where a professional actor gives his best. But yes, some do carry it home.”
Looking at her journey Leena who has done shows such as Bandini, Tujh Sang Preet Lagai Sajna, Punar Vivaah, Tere Liye etc is happy to have reached where she has. “But I am no way satisfied as I have miles to go.”
Ask her if there is a show which is closest to her heart, and the answer is, “I can’t compare as I have learnt from each outing and there is always the right time and place for everything as priorities also change.”
While being an actor she would love to play all kind of roles. “Doing a don’s role is quite high on my bucket list,” states the actor.
Leena is not seen much on social media. “I hardly tweet. When I feel the need to express myself I do so. Also there are times when I have to be seen and I feel I should do, but then it is not me. I will not comment on what others do, to each his own.”
Leena who had taken the big screen detour has no regrets. “I did good work. Sajid Khan’s Himmatwala did not well; I am happy for I got to work in a big film.”
Looking ahead, she is still open to good work across all mediums. “Be it films, theater or even digital, I am game for any medium.”
Since you mentioned web, would you have qualms about adorning a bold avatar, we ask her. “I don’t mind, for at end of the day I am an actor. What I do on screen is part of my character and it does not depict who I am really am.”
Keep shining with your work, Leena!!