Across the Koffee table
Hailing from a family of renowned film personalities including Kamal Haasan, Suhasini, Mani Ratnam and Charu Haasan, it’s a surprise that Anu Hasan has taken to television. “In my family, everyone is doing what they want to. But, our focus is clear. I do not regret that I didn’t take up acting as my full-time career.”
Ask about her latest venture Sarvam and she smiles. “I play a very small but important role in the film. I can’t reveal much now but I can say that the shots are mind-blowing,” she assures.
Anu Hasan does not restrict herself to dancing around trees. “I do not want to be stereotyped as a caring sister or a do-gooder. I want to experiment with roles. I got several offers where I was asked to play the mother of leading actors. I turned them down because they were the usual motherly characters. But I don’t mind taking up the role of a mother if it is out of the ordinary,” she elucidates.
So, what is Anu’s opinion on women being reduced to glamour dolls in films with little scope for performance? “Frankly speaking, men are bad at glamour. I think that is the strength of women and we should capitalise on that factor.”
With the remake trend fast catching up in the cinema industry, does Anu think it’s possible to remake a movie of the stature of Indira? “I think it is possible. But few changes have to be made to suit the contemporary audience. I did the movie to prove that I can also act. But I will make sure that I do not star in the remake.”
Coming to her talk show, how does the cheery host instantly strike a rapport with her guests? “I respect every guest for their achievements and I remember that they are the stars of the show, not me,” says Anu.
On the celebrity she enjoyed interviewing most she says, “Jayaram was a delight. Throughout the show I was rolling with laughter. I also enjoyed talking to Gangai Amaran and SP Balasubramaniam. You learn something from every guest. But I also had guests with whom I had a difficult time chatting.”
With her current project, a travelogue on Singapore on the cards, Anu is all pepped up. “I love travelling. I always wanted to explore new terrains and the travelogue perfectly fits the bill. I have explored those places in Singapore which people are not aware of.”
Anu is on a roll with tele-serial Rekha IPS and TV show 20-20. “I consider myself lucky. Who would get to do such varied roles — a host in Koffee, cop in Rekha IPS and an anchor in 20-20?”
Finally, who would Anu give the ‘Koffee award’ to? “Undoubtedly, Suhasini! She is capable of multitasking. She handles so much and I really admire her,” signs off the proud cousin.
source: indiatimes.com