Lucknow’s hidden gems: Actor Benu Kalsi says ‘I never asked anyone for work, everything just fell into place’

Benu Kalsi is a seasoned actor from Lucknow, best known for her work in the Shah Rukh Khan-led Pardes (1997). The versatile performer began her career on radio in the 1970s and soon transitioned to theatre. She made a name for herself on stage with plays such as Satya Harishchandra and Octopus. 

The veteran also impressed the TV audience with her work in Dekh Bhai Dekh. Bandhuji, Kora Kagaz, and Rishtey. Speaking exclusively to Roktim Rajpal Diaries, Kalsi opens up about her career and her decision to quit acting because of personal reasons.

How did your association with radio begin?

I developed an interest in acting in 1968. However, back then, women were not allowed to work unless they were married. I finally got freedom when I got married in 1969. In 1975, I returned to Lucknow. My husband then encouraged me to work. I got associated with radio. 

How did films and theatre happen?

I never asked anyone for work. Everything just fell into place. I was working in radio when a friend asked me to do theatre. The same friend later asked me to do TV and I worked in the show Bandhuji.

Actor Benu Kalsi. | Credit: Benu Kalsi

Then Dekh Bhai Dekh happened. Soon Subhash Ghai came to know about me. When we met, he just asked me whether I had a passport and requested me to come to Vancouver in Canada. That’s how Pardes happened. 

What is the hardest medium to perform in?

TV is the hardest medium of the lot. The shoot has a short duration. That’s why ek strain sa hota hai. Budget ka bhi constraint hota hai. The script too is altered on the fly. 

What is the easiest?

Theatre is the easiest.You get many rehearsals for the same. The director too is hands on. That makes it possible for one to perform free honke. 

What is the toughest character you played on stage?

Satya Harishchandra was the toughest role. I had to cry a lot while performing. Then there was Sita Vanvas. Its dialogues were tough. It had a unique writing style. I had to add emotions to the dialogues.

Was theatre a stable profession back in the day?

There was no money in the theatre during my time. We did not even get conveyance money. These days, the situation is a bit as they give conveyance fees. 

Why did you give up your acting career?

I decided to give it up for my family. Yeh ek shauk tha. It could never take priority over personal life. I have no grudges about that.

Any plans of making a comeback? 

That will not be possible. My health doesn’t  permit that.