Veteran actress Ssujata Mehta, known for her stellar performances in TV shows like Shrikant, Khandaan, Ye Meri Life Hai, Kyaa Hoga Nimmo Kaa, Saraswatichandra, and movies such as Pratighaat, Yateem, Pratigyabadh, Gunahon Ka Devta, Hum Sab Chor Hain, 3 Deewarein, and Chitkar (Gujarati), recently took a trip down memory lane to reflect on her humble beginnings in the entertainment industry. In a heartwarming interview, she shared the story of her first-ever earnings from a radio play, an experience that set the foundation for her successful acting career.
A Humble Start in Radio Plays
Before becoming a household name, Ssujata’s first foray into acting was through the world of radio plays. At a time when Gujarati radio plays were incredibly popular, the young actress was still in school and hadn’t yet performed on stage. This early exposure to the medium sparked her passion for performance.
“I remember it vividly; it was a radio play,” Ssujata recalled. “Gujarati radio plays were very famous back then. I was still in school and hadn’t even started performing on stage yet. The whole experience was new and thrilling.”
Her First Earnings: ₹5 That Sparked Joy
Ssujata’s first earnings from her radio play amounted to a modest ₹5—a small sum by today’s standards, but a significant amount for a schoolgirl at the time. The actress fondly remembers how she celebrated her first pay by sharing it with others.
“I used that ₹5 to buy chocolates,” she shared with a smile. “Then, I shared them with my friends at school and in my building. ₹5 was a big amount in those times, and I wanted to celebrate it with everyone around me.”
The Power of Voice: A Stepping Stone to Theater
Beyond the monetary aspect, Ssujata fondly remembers how the radio plays shaped her early career. “Those radio plays were such an essential part of my early journey,” she said. “They taught me how to convey emotions purely through voice, which was an incredible experience.”
Her time in radio eventually led to bigger opportunities. Ssujata’s talent and passion caught the attention of professionals in Gujarati theater, and she made the transition to live stage performances. This marked a major milestone in her career, taking her from the world of radio to the vibrant world of commercial Gujarati theater.
From her early days in radio plays to her celebrated career in television and cinema, Ssujata Mehta’s journey serves as a testament to her dedication and love for the craft. As she continues to inspire both young and seasoned actors, her story of humble beginnings reminds us all that every big journey starts with a small, significant step.
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