'I owe my success to Dance India Dance'

Binny Sharma, the girl from Ahmedabad, who shot to fame as one of the top four finalists of Lux Dance India Dance Season 2, made her acting debut on Zee TV's new daily soap, Sanjog Se Bani Sangini.

Sangini is the story of a guy Rudra (Iqbal Khan) who fails to get his childhood love Pihu, played by Additi Gupta and takes to alcohol.

Enter Gauri (Binny Sharma) like a breath of fresh air. Binny talks about her role and her dreams to Rajul Hegde. Excerpts:

Tell us about your character in Sanjog Se Bani Sangini.

 I play Gauri, a strong, mature and confident girl. She faces a lot of difficulties and responsibilities and yet remains happy.

How did you bag the role?

I had auditioned for this show when I was competing in Dance India Dance, but I didn't want to shift my focus from dancing. I moved to the show only after the finale.

Were you always interested in acting?

Dancing was always my priority, but I didn't really mind getting into acting. During Dance India Dance, I realised I could act, but honestly, I never thought I would land such a big show.

As a dancer, I have proven myself, but this is my first step towards acting. I feel acting and dance can go hand in hand. I connect with audiences as a dancer, so I hope the makers of the show will tap into my skills.

Will dancing take a back seat now?

I owe my success to Dance India Dance. I am nothing without dance, so I don't think it can take a back seat. I have had many offers for international workshops, but because of this serial, I couldn't accept them. Even now, I make sure I dance at least once a day.

Tell us about your first day of shooting.

I was nervous. The cast was amazing and experienced and I had so much to learn. But it wasn't tough and I was confident I would be able to handle myself.

Your experience with co-starts...

I have had scenes with Iqbal Khan, but not with Additi. He is a brilliant actor and I'm happy to be part of this show.

Tell us about your family?

I am from Punjab, but settled in Gujarat for the last 10 years. I am the youngest of three sisters and they are my best friends. My parents have always been very supportive. I have a wonderful family.

How did your family react to working in a serial?

They were very happy. My dad always wanted me to fulfill my dreams. Even as a child, I always took part in plays and dances. I got an offer for a Cerelac advertisement when I was very young, but my mother turned down the offer. My family is very happy I have achieved my dreams.

Any other plans?

Yes. My dream is to open my own dance school.

Catch Sanjog Se Bani Sangin from Monday to Thursday, between 10pm and 10.30pm, on Zee TV.