Today she is into films, but small screen has always been her first love. After watching her perform confidently in that central character in TV serial ;’Tujha Ni Majha Ghar Shrimantacha’, you are convinced that she is a versatile actress, ever ready with her emotions like a perfect button artiste. Marathi Movie world spoke to Tejaswini Pandit to know more about her interests in this field. Excerpts from an interview:

Q: In your currently running serial ‘Tujha Ni Majha Ghar Shrimantacha’, you have been performing with senior artistes like Ramesh Deo and others. How is your experience performing in their presence ?
A: Very nice. Initially, I never knew them so well but as the shooting progressed, I became friendly with all of them. Now that we are working 14 hours a day on the sets, it has brought that required tuning with all of them. Today, on the sets you will not witness simple chit chat but witness everybody involved in pulling each other’s legs during free time. Since I am always in a habit of eating something during the break, they all call me ‘Khadaad Maushi. But, I really enjoy working in such a good company of co-stars.
nishigandha wad, Tejaswini Pandit
Q: Now that you are into TV serials and films at the same time, which medium you prefer the most from your career point of view ?
A: It is very difficult to distinguish between the two. But, keeping in mind the financial gain and popularity, I am more comfortable with TV serials. Working in TV serials, keeps you busy for 30 days in a month. Another advantage being that TV is there in every house, making it possible for you to reach to the masses. In films that does not happen. You only target the Mumbai and Pune audience, unless you accept films meant for Big Single screen. It is only then you are able to reach people from places like Kolhapur, Nagpur and other small towns and villages. Only satisfaction I get through films, is by performing different types of roles.

Q: The first look of your forthcoming film ‘Sindhutai Sapkal’ was recently witnessed at the Berlin film festival. How do you recollect those memorable moments ?
A: I was under tremendous pressure. Actually, the writer and director of this film had seen my performance in ‘Wavtal’ and being fair and blue eyed, I was preferred for this role. Later, they wanted to shoot few scenes on me and asked me to get ready for those scenes, where my performance was closely observed. One of the scenes came so natural that even the director was in tears. He complimented me and it was only then I felt relaxed. I am sure that this film would deliver the best presentation.

Q: What type of roles you intend to play in future ?
A: In most of my forthcoming films, whether it is ‘Sindhutai’, ‘Ranbhool’ or ‘Target’, I am playing different characters. From my side, I am trying to be different; but it is my wish to play the kind of roles that Urmila Matondkar played in her films. I specially liked her role in ‘Ek Hasina Thi’ and would really enjoy playing such a type of role.

Q: As an actress where will Tejaswini be within 3-4 years from now ?
A: Whatever I aimed for in this industry, surely I will be able to reach to that level. This is possible, because whatever roles come to me I consider them to be meant only for me. Take for example the roles offered to Amruta or Sonalee. They are only meant for them. Hence, my competition is not with them but with my own self. Fortunately, the roles coming to me now are women oriented central characters, which itself is a plus point. I am only trying to give my 100%. One more thing I would like to add here that after 3-4 years, even if I am married, I shall remain the same –the mischievous Tejaswini, as you see her today.

Q: In your next film ‘Sindhutai’ you are performing along with your mother. Isn’t that a great moment ?
A: The role that I am playing in this film ( as young Sindhutai) will actually be carried forward by my mother playing the present day Sindhutai. Actually, I had performed with my mother in the past in a play. When the same play was revived, I played the role she used to play and she played the role of my Boss. Later, this TV serial ‘Tujha Ni Majha Ghar Shrimantacha’, brought us together. To be very honest, my mother is like an acting school. There is always some pressure while working with her, but I get full satisfaction while she is around.

Q: In your recently released film ‘Wavtal’ you are shown as an oppressed woman most of the time. Don’t you think that Rehmat Khan’s character should have reappeared to show him getting killed at the hands of K-5 in your presence, to give justice to your character?
A: No, I don’t think so. Instead of finishing off the criminal in a man, the attitude needs to be changed. Only then a woman can live safely.