Neha Dhupia: Roadies participants are far better than me

Neha Dhupia

Among the various avatars she donned to reinvent herself after a sagging Bollywood career is that of a "baddie" host of the long-running reality show, Roadies. Unlike many predecessors, Neha Dhupia emerged as one among the most celebrated hosts of the show, compelling the makers to extend her involvement in the seasons that followed. Returning for the fourth time to play team leader to the participants, Dhupia talks to mid-day about sieving the troublemakers from the passionate aspirants, and what she looks out for in candidates.

What do you look out for in an aspirant?
An aspiring participant must have stories to tell. S/he should have taken part in adventures, and must know the art of reacting in tough situations. That will help the candidate excel in the tasks. Also, s/he must learn to co-habit. People think that the show demands contestants who are physically strong, those who can pull off abundant push-ups. If that were true, we'd hold auditions at gyms. We are looking for people with coloured personalities, experiences and mental awareness.

Would you select yourself if you auditioned for the show?
I don't think I would even get shortlisted. I don't have that spark. The participants are far better than me. When I see them at the auditions, I am often scared. We put them through a lot. The physical challenges are the least of the concerns. They come prepared to execute pull-ups and push-ups. But, questions about life, morals, talent and skill are testing. I'd never ace them.

Certain challenges showcased on the show appear risky. Do you fear that there may be dire consequences?
Every participant's safety is ensured. Yet, we try to see how far we can push them. Also, we sieve those who can create trouble at the auditions itself. For instance, we asked one aspirant if he would electrocute his mother to be selected, and he said he would. We rejected him instantly. For us, participants' ethics matter. If someone is ready to harm his mother, nothing can stop him from harming someone else.

What are you looking forward to in this season?
Our month-long stay at a wildlife sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh! I fear I may not return alive (laughs). It's not the lack of security, food or the cold water that is worrisome. But hearing abrupt sounds at night can scare the living daylights out of you.

In the last few years, people have seen a different side of your personality. Were you always so jovial?
Yes, but I was never mature, bright or smart enough to embrace it. When you are younger, you try to be someone else; the way people want you to be. Or, you begin to ape another person. I was trying to do the same. It took me a while to get comfortable in my skin. Now, I speak my mind and wear the clothes I like. I have a sense of humour that people have begun to recognise.

Do you think the industry is accepting of diverse actors today?
There's place for everyone in the industry; you only have to be willing to enhance your craft. If you have too much time on hand, there is something wrong with you. You need to work on your craft, whether the projects coming your way materialise or not. There are so many avenues for actors today. But, if you are unable to sell your talent, it is scary.

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