Actress Moon Banerrjee says the television industry has seen a drastic change

What kind of roles have you been looking for over the years?

I am always looking for roles that contribute towards the story and if it’s meatier, then it’s a cherry on the cake. I am fortunate to have been approached for roles that are important and, at times, challenging. I am always looking to experiment with different roles.

You have mostly played positive roles, right?

Yes, I have played positive roles more than negative. Shows like Sasural Genda Phool, Sasural Simar Ka 2, Kuch Rang Pyaar Ke Aise Bhi, Muskaan, Muskurane Ki Wajeh Tum Ho and Teri Meri Doriyan are examples. When I started my career, there were shows like Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kkusum, Rishton Ki Dor, Kamal and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. Then I appeared in a series of advertisements. I have also done a Telugu film called Yagnam.

Do you feel actors still get typecast?

Yes, they do. Once an actor plays a certain role and gets accepted by the audience, it becomes both a boon and a drawback. People want to see him or her in those type of roles only.

How has the television industry changed over the years?

Many changes have happened. Shows have very little time on air and they get replaced overnight. Sometimes, some shows don’t even see the daylight, even after many episodes have been filmed. The audience has shifted to OTT, so TV shows are made for a certain group, which makes the shows very regressive at times. Overall, the television industry has seen a drastic change.

What kind of change would you like to see in the television industry?

I want to see a progressive shift on television, where there is equality in terms of roles, commercials, and more light and fun shows being made. There should be more slice-of-life shows and romcoms.

Who do you look up to as an inspiration?

I definitely look up to myself. To begin with, I think the way I have effortlessly sailed the multitasking space is commendable and I am my biggest cheerleader. All the women I know have left an impact on me. I look up to all because, as they say, it’s a man’s world, and it’s definitely difficult being a woman in today’s world.

Is there a particular character you have played that deeply resonated with you?

Yes, it was Asha Bose in the TV show Kuch Rang Pyar Ke. The portrayal of women onscreen is changing, but the process is pretty slow. We are still bound by a particular formula, and, sadly, we follow the norm. But there are some makers who are making an effort to experiment.

What are your thoughts on respect and inclusivity for female actors in the industry?

I would like to see more respect and inclusivity for female actors in the industry. There is still a long way to go.

What do you have to say about payment disparity in the television industry?

I don’t know whether it’s gender or what, but there is a certain pay disparity in general in the business these days. Commercials are falling drastically and it’s deeply saddening.

What are your views on social media?

Social media is a space free from gender bias and disparity. I feel it’s a very modern and progressive space.