Niki Aneja: I’m here to re-introduce myself to people

Niki Walia, best known for her role as Dr Simran in the TV show 'Astitva', is back from England and is soon likely to be seen on the small screen again. While she has no plans of relocating to India, she is happy to return to acting. Excerpts from a chat with the spunky actress...
Are you set for your second innings? Will you be spending a lot of time in India now?
It’s not really a second innings; I haven’t stopped working, I just slowed down a bit.I have been working in the UK on a soap and was also in the film Shaandaar. I’m just here to re-introduce myself to people so they remember me when anything good comes along.
Madhuri Dixit, who settled abroad moved back permanently. Do you have any plans to do that in the future?
I don’t think I want to move back permanently; I would rather my kids not be uprooted. I can go back and forth as much as needed. My support back home is very strong, so I am confident of managing well on both fronts.
Much has changed on TV since your 'Astitva' days...
Really? I remember every one saying the same thing at that time. Astitva was a very different show in those days. I feel the basic programming on TV remains the same. Only a few shows struggle to maintain the status quo of intellectual programming.
Where do you see yourself in the current daayan-naagin dominated telly scenario?
Like I said, these things have always been there. But I have always been offered sensitive and sensible characters. India has a huge population and the makers and channels have to cater to all. Hence saas-bahus, daayan-naagins and off-beat programmes will exist together.
Do you watch Indian TV shows in England?
I have a very busy schedule with the kids’ school and homework, and other responsibilities of a homemaker. But I try and watch what I can. I can’t keep up with the daily soaps regularly but game and music shows are easily manageable.
What about films?
'Shaandaar' was a great experience. Film content has changed in India. Some great stories are being told now. Here’s to hoping that someone who is making these films will consider me for a role.
Not many know that you started your acting career with a film opposite Anil Kapoor.
That film was a long long time ago. It was fun at that time. But I wanted to do some meaningful and intense work, which was not possible for female actors in Indian films then. Hence I switched to TV. And I m so glad I did. TV has given me the opportunity to do diverse work. It has given me so much creative satisfaction. I look forward to doing more of it.