Talking point with sanjeeda sheikh

What were you doing during your break from fiction?
Truthfully,I was waiting for something interesting to come along. The recession made sure that good offers were few and far between and so I took the opportunity to explore some new avenues. For instance,I did a couple of commercials for Nirma and Ponds. That was a refreshing experience and a good change.

What else are you busy with apart from Ajnabbi?
I’m also on Zara Nach Ke Dikha. In fact,after I wrap up my shoot for Ajnabbi,I head for Zara Nach Ke Dikha’s rehearsals. It’s very grueling—you could say I have a lot on my plate right now. But I’m not complaining,it’s good to be busy like this.

You were also on Nach Baliye. What attracts you to dance reality shows?
There are a lot of exciting dance reality shows on TV and I really enjoy watching them as well,so it makes sense to take part in them. And anyway,I also enjoy dancing a lot. Whenever I’m free in between shots,you’ll find me dancing and singing.

So you’re combining both fun and work on this show.
At the moment,the rehearsals feel more like work than fun. They’re very exhausting and it’s a competition. So,one has to put in one’s best. But that said,yes,I do appreciate the fact that I’m part of such an amazing team and it’ll definitely be exciting to see the boys and girls battle it out on the dance floor.

Aamir Ali is on the boys’ team. Are the two of you very competitive off the sets?
Of course,we’re competing against each other. So,we’ll each put in our best. But we’re not children—we won’t fight about this purely professional assignment. However,we’re always giving each other constructive criticism and advice. It feels good to have some support like that—everyone else always writes and talks rubbish about one,but there’s always an honest support system at home.