Randeep Hooda watched our play and complimented us

Actress Sukhada Deshpande-Khandkekar who was seen as Ruksana in 'Tuza Maza Jamena' is currently busy with Hindi theatre. Sukhada, who is a trained classical dancer, had choreographed for her husband Abhijeet Khandkekar and Tejaswini Pandit���s musical play 'Ye Re Ye Re Paisa' as well. In a candid chat with Nashik Times, the actress speaks about Prithvi Theatre, her Urdu project and more. Excerpts:
Not many people know that you are a part of an Urdu series called 'Sirat-al-Mustaqeem' that is aimed at spreading general awareness among women in Pakistan.Can you tell us more about it?
I got associated with this project three years ago. It is an ongoing process. We shoot for a fortnight every year, take a break, do other work and meet up again a year later. The series is not going to be broadcasted on any TV channel but has been made for an NGO. It is aimed at explaining religion through scientific explanations for women in Pakistan. Rohini Hattangadi is also a part of this project.
You seem to have found a calling in Hindi theatre considering the three plays you are currently doing���
'Umrao' was the first Hindi play that I was a part of. Neetu Chandra plays the lead in that play. Soon after that 'Doop Dhaan' followed where I have an important role. I also did another play called 'Dhara Ki Kahaani' which is a children���s play and where I play the role of Binny, which is a dustbin. I am actually enjoying doing Hindi theatre as all the three plays that I am doing give me an opportunity to showcase my dancing talents to the fullest.
Did Randeep Hooda drop by anytime during your rehearsals for 'Umrao' to meet Neetu?
Randeep watched our play and later came backstage to compliment all of us. Even Kareena Kapoor and Kajol had come for one of the shows and they too appreciated it. I cherish the moment when Ashish Vidyarthi came backstage, hugged me and said he found my onstage presence beautiful. The best part about working with Prithvi is the kind of audience you get there.
Have Marathi television, theatre and films taken a backseat then?
Not at all. I am doing it as and when I get the time. I recently shot for an episodic for the serial Asmita. I missed out on doing Vijay Kenkre���s play because of date issues or else you would have seen me in a Marathi play by now as well.
How is your husband Abhijeet, as a person?
I had never met Abhijeet while in Nashik. We met through a social networking site and went on to become best friends. That time he was helping my mom find a suitable boy for me. One day, he proposed to me out of the blue and we eventually got married. I had done theatre, acting and dance shows before marriage but got recognition after marriage. Abhijeet is my lucky charm and I am really lucky to have him in my life.
What are your memories of Nashik?
The bhel at Shaukeen and Krushnai vada-pav are places I enjoy going to. During my college days we used to discuss about our academic projects at Shree Krishna and Mamaz. Even today when I come to Nashik I make it a point to go to the Samartha Juice centre for the pineapple juice and ice-cream.