Charming, self assured and talented are some of the adjectives one can use for Rujuta Deshmukh, who has been able to establish her own identity in today’s competitive world. Acting has already been in her blood, being born in the family who owned a drama company in Pune. Her father Avinash Deshmukh, who owned a theatre company, gave Rujuta her first break as a child artiste, when she was studying in 4th standard. Rujuta then played the role of Rajaram, in the historical play ‘Raigadala Jhevha Jaag Yete’. This was followed by roles in Marathi films like ‘Nashibvaan’, ‘Ek Gadi Baki Anadi’ and many others as a child artiste. In short, she has worked in the company of popular artistes like Alka Kubal and likes. Rujuta is a graduate with English Literature from Pune’s prestigious S.P. College, which is also known as a temple of Marathi artistes. Having performed at various Inter school and collegiate competitions, Rujuta was actively associated with GRIPS theatre. She got her first major break through Vinay Apte in the most popular serial ‘Abhalmaya’ and since then she has never looked back.

Her memorable performance in another popular serial ‘Kalat Nakalat’ and her emotion filled role of a blind girl in another serial ‘Goshta Eka Anandichi’ goes on to say a lot about her potential as an actress. Two years ago, she has also proved her dancing skills in a TV reality show, suggesting that as an actress, she was ready for all challenges. Rujuta took time off to have a chit chat with Marathi Movie world. Excerpts from the chit chat.

Q: What are your memories about ‘Abhalmaya’, your first major exposure on small screen?
A: Yes, it was a great moment, which is very difficult to describe in words. Being a part of this popular soap on a popular private channel, gave a nice feeling. I cannot forget that character of Pallavi.

Q: You were also part of another popular serial ‘Damini’. How was that feeling ?
A: Again it was a happy moment to be a part of this big serial and playing Dr. Esha in the concluding part and that too in the company of great stars like Sanjay Mone , Sukanya, Uday Sabnis and others.

Q: You have also worked in one big banner Hindi film. Isn’t it ?
A: Yes, it was in Rajkumar Santoshi’s film ‘Family’.

Q: Wasn’t that a great experience too? How were you selected for that role?
A: Yes, it was a memorable moment in my life and also wonderful experience to be part of this film, as there was also good scope for my character, being an important member of a Sahai family. About playing this role, he just spoke to me and asked about my availability. And, that’s how I was selected. I was literally thrilled, as I had to perform few scenes also with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan.

Q: How was your personal experience, working with a big star like him ?
A: He is a great actor and hence getting a chance to perform with him itself was a great moment in my life. After I gave my first day shot, I went and sat in one corner watching some of his scenes filled with emotions. He was simply a master in that. After his shot, I never noticed him going into his vanity van. Instead he sat on one side, watching others perform. That displayed his modesty. But, when I crossed him in the corridor during the break, he addressed me with my first name and exchanged pleasantries. I was overwhelmed with this gesture from a great actor like him.