Syed Firdaus Ashraf

After Amitabh Bachchan, Govinda and Manisha Koirala, Sonali Bendre now makes the switch to television shows from the big screen.

The actress has been roped in to host Kya Masti Kya Dhoom for Star Plus.

The show is a countrywide platform for young, budding talent to display their talent. It is open for children between eight and 18 years of age.

And if there were rumours at all about her quitting celluloid, she quashes them immediately: "No way! I will continue to work in films. The show will be telecast on Friday."

You wonder whether Kya Masti Kya Dhoom is the right career move for her. "I can't say," she confesses. "For me, modelling was accidental. So was films. And now, it's television.

"I have never planned my career. I did whatever came my way. I am doing this show because I felt it was exciting."

Why the switch to television after working with successful Hindi stars like Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan? Sonali states, firmly, "I told you I have never planned my career. I liked the concept. It's fun. And I accepted the offer."

Sonali has shot six episodes for the programme so far.

"I enjoy interacting with kids. I can't indulge as often as I would like to thanks to my busy schedule. I especially miss interacting with my nephew, who is ten years old. The fact, though, is I like children," says Sonali.

Was she surprised when she was asked to host the show? "Yes, I was. I took some time to think it over. I finally did say yes because I love kids. The first six episodes have been very good."

Vandana Malik has produced the show for TV 18. The show is directed by Mahesh Aaney, and the sets have been designed by Omung Kumar of Opus Planet.

Does she feel that television is a step down from films? Sonali asserts, "I don't think so. The big screen has its own charm. The small screen has its own. Both are good in their own ways."

What does she feel about the recent hits, Lagaan and Gadar- Ek Prem Katha? "I'm glad these films have broken the box office jinx. And I am happier about the fact that people seem to have accepted these offbeat films. Now, producers and directors will be encouraged to make more such films."

What are her expectations from Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega, which releases Friday? "I am looking forward to the release. It's a good film; we all had a great time working in it. I hope people will like the film and me."

Coming back to the show, how much will she be paid? "I don't know. In fact, I haven't even come to a decision on that issue with Star Plus," she quips.

How different will Kya Masti Kya Dhoom be from Colgate Boggie Woogie, which is being telecast on Sony TV?

"This show is not just about dancing and singing -- there's a lot more on offer. It is something new. Actually, why don't you just watch it?!"

Photographs: Santosh Verma