As the traditional Tulsi, in the long running serial Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Smriti Z Iraani received a lot of flak for presenting a regressive picture of the Indian woman. But the actor cum producer cum politician feels that it is the actors’ life and ideals, rather than his onscreen persona, which send a message.

‘’I don’t think an actor’s role can give a message to society. Rather, I feel it is the way they live their life that sends across a message. For example, as an actor, if I refuse a tobacco related endorsements or do not promote alcohol then I am setting an example for the public,” she says. Smriti adds, “The day an actor steps into the world of modelling, he or she creates an image that is accessible to many, thus leading to a widespread impact. That is where, I feel, one’s responsibility as an actor comes in.”

Smriti continues, “I have people asking me to say in an  advertisement that a particular product adds to the energy level—something which they feel will help the sales of the product. But I have declined all these offers,” she discloses.

As a TV producer, since the past two years, Smriti has been striving to provide shows ‘different from the usual’ be it Viruddh, Thodi Si Zamin Thoda Sa Aasman or essaying a role in Teen Bahuraniyan.   “Most television producers today tend to make serials on the saas bahu concept. There are very few who are able to make something new. As a producer, I have established a niche for myself. Any channel that wants to give to the viewer something different from the tried and the tested know, I am the one producer they can get in touch with,” she ends.