"With acting, you’re often hiding behind a character, but hosting brings out the real 'you.' It’s a whole new way of connecting with people, and I loved every moment of it."
Acting was something I had always been passionate about. Growing up, I loved storytelling, and television was a natural medium for me to explore that. Landing the role of Radhika in Dosti... Yaariyan... Manmarziyan felt surreal. It was my first major role, and I was beyond excited to bring her story to life. Radhika’s journey of self-discovery and her friendships struck a chord with many viewers, and I loved every moment of portraying her.
Q. You shared such great chemistry with your co-stars in Dosti... Yaariyan... Manmarziyan. What was it like working with Aham Sharma?
Aham is a brilliant actor and such a supportive co-star. The chemistry you saw on screen was partly due to our shared commitment to making each scene authentic. Aham was always focused and put a lot into his character, which made me want to give my best as well. I think our camaraderie translated well on screen, which viewers really enjoyed.
Q. After Manmarziyan, you took on different roles, including Bahamani in Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat and Kavya in Yeh Hai Aashiqui. How did those experiences differ from your debut role?
Oh, each role was so unique! Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat allowed me to explore historical fiction, which was quite challenging but fulfilling. The character of Bahamani was different from anything I had done before, especially in terms of her historical significance and personality. Yeh Hai Aashiqui on the other hand, was modern, relatable, and had a very different vibe. Playing Kavya gave me a chance to be part of an anthology that explored complex, real-life relationships, which was refreshing.
Q. You then transitioned into hosting with Foodshala and Loco. How did you find the switch from acting to hosting?
Hosting was definitely a new experience for me! With acting, you’re often hiding behind a character, but hosting brings out the real “you.” Foodshala was an amazing show because it allowed me to connect with an international audience in the Middle East. It was also an entirely different format from anything I’d done before. Hosting Loco was super exciting because it was India’s first-ever live trivia game show, and it came with its own set of thrills and challenges. Interacting with viewers live brought an adrenaline rush, and I had a lot of fun learning the ropes of hosting.
Q. What did you enjoy most about hosting Foodshala?
Definitely the connection with viewers. I loved the aspect of food as a unifying factor across cultures, and getting to interact with contestants who had such diverse culinary backgrounds was fascinating. Being part of a show that celebrated food from different cultures for a Middle Eastern audience gave me a fresh perspective on the impact that cuisine has on relationships, memories, and traditions.
Q. As a live trivia show host on Loco, you had to be spontaneous and quick-thinking. Did you ever feel nervous?
Oh, absolutely! Hosting live is exhilarating but can also be nerve-wracking. There’s no room for retakes, so you need to be on your toes, stay calm, and react quickly. It was a bit intimidating at first, but once I got into the rhythm, it became really enjoyable. Plus, interacting with a live audience in real-time is such a unique experience.
Q. Reflecting on your career so far, do you have any memorable moments or a role that stands out as particularly meaningful?
Radhika in Dosti... Yaariyan... Manmarziyan will always be special because it was my first major role and opened up a world of opportunities. However, every role has taught me something new and shaped me as an actor and a person. I am grateful for each experience, as it has contributed to my growth.
Q. Lastly, what can we look forward to from you in the future? Any exciting projects?
I am working on a couple of things right now, both in acting and hosting. I can’t reveal much yet, but I’m exploring new genres, including some digital projects. I’m excited to bring some new characters and stories to life that I think audiences will really connect with!
BIO :
Monica Sehgal is an Indian television actress and host, best known for her role as Radhika Mishra in Dosti... Yaariyan... Manmarziyan on Star Plus. She made her debut in 2015 and later appeared in shows like Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat and 'Yeh Hai Aashiqui'. Monica also hosted Foodshala for Middle Eastern audiences and India’s first live trivia game show, Loco. She is recognized for her versatile acting and hosting skills.
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