Monalisa Opens Up on Motherhood, Family, And Her New Series

In an interview with DC, Monalisa talks about her powerful new role, her journey in the entertainment industry, staying away from controversies, caring for her ageing parents and in-laws, the emotional challenges of IVF, her dream of embracing motherhood, and her hopes for the future.

Tell us about your role in Love to Hate You.

I'm doing very well, thank you. Love to Hate You is releasing in both vertical and horizontal formats. My character is bold, confident, classy and extremely smart. She knows exactly what she wants and isn't afraid to manipulate people to achieve her goals. If someone stands in her way, she knows how to deal with them.

You've had an incredible journey...from Bhojpuri cinema to television, reality shows and now web series. How do you look back on it?

I feel extremely grateful. Every platform has given me love and recognition. Bhojpuri films gave me my first break, television expanded my reach, reality shows introduced me to a different audience, and web series have allowed me to explore exciting new characters. Every phase of my career has been special.

Despite being in the entertainment industry, you've largely stayed away from controversies. What's your secret?

I've always been clear about why I entered this industry...to work and grow through my talent. In 2008, while shooting Dulha Albela, I met Vikrant, and that's where our love story began. We've always been committed to each other, so my focus remained on my work and my relationship rather than unnecessary gossip.

The Bhojpuri industry often makes headlines because of controversies. What are your thoughts?

I don't think controversies define the entire industry. Today, social media and the race to stay in the limelight often create unnecessary drama. Personally, I believe authenticity lasts much longer than controversy, so I've always chosen to stay true to myself.

How important was the success of your debut film?

It meant everything to me. My first film, Kahan Jaiba Raja Nazariya Ladai Ke, received tremendous love from the audience. When people appreciate your work from the very beginning and you have God's blessings, you don't feel the need to depend on anyone else for success.

How do you balance your career with family responsibilities?

It's definitely challenging. There are times when I'm shooting and receive an urgent call about my mother's health, which immediately worries me. Alongside that, there are household responsibilities too. Vikrant and I support each other through everything, and family has always been our top priority.

You've been deeply involved in caring for your parents and in-laws. What does family mean to you?

Family is everything. I lost my father a year ago, and I still miss him deeply. My mother has serious health issues and requires constant care. We've done everything possible for her treatment because we simply cannot imagine life without our parents. Their presence is our greatest strength.

What message would you give to people who leave their parents in old-age homes?

I don't believe in judging anyone because every family has different circumstances. Some people genuinely face unavoidable situations. But wherever parents live, they should never feel neglected or abandoned. Love, care and respect are what truly matter.

People often ask you about family planning and motherhood. Would you like to address those questions?

Yes, because many people comment without knowing the reality. They don't know how many IVF attempts we've gone through, how many injections I've taken, how much hormonal imbalance I've experienced, or how emotionally difficult this journey has been. I'm not sharing this to seek sympathy, I simply want people to understand that everyone is fighting their own battles. I still believe everything will happen at the right time.

Audiences enjoy watching you play grey and negative characters. Do you enjoy portraying them?

Absolutely. Grey characters are very popular today because they have depth. As an actor, I have to completely believe in the character I'm portraying. Just because I play a negative role doesn't mean I'm like that in real life. That's the beauty and challenge of acting.

Are you planning to return to Bhojpuri films?

At the moment, I'm focusing on television and web shows. If a good Bhojpuri film comes my way, I'd definitely love to do it. I'm also working on more vertical web series and hope to return to reality shows soon.

Tell us more about Love to Hate You.

It's an entertaining drama packed with emotions, romance, twists, and suspense. My character brings a lot of excitement to the story. I hope audiences enjoy watching it as much as we enjoyed making it.

What do love and hate mean to you personally?

For me, there's only love. I don't carry hatred for anyone. I've received immense love from my fans, colleagues, and family throughout my journey, and I believe in giving that love back.

Finally, do you have a message for your fans?

Thank you for supporting and loving me throughout my journey. Please continue to shower me with your love, and I promise I won't disappoint you.