Veteran Actress Manasi Joshi Roy Breaks Ageism Barriers with New TV Show

Veteran actress Manasi Joshi Roy is set to make a comeback to television with the show "Lakshmi Niwas," where she will be playing the titular character. This marks her return to the small screen after more than a year, and Roy is excited about the opportunity to portray a mature character, something she believes the industry has been lacking.

According to Roy, the most appealing aspect of "Lakshmi Niwas" is that it centers around an older couple and their dreams, a refreshing change from the industry's tendency to relegate older characters to the sidelines. "Television had reached a phase where older couples were shown only as parents to the leads," she explains, adding that she has often turned down such roles in the past, preferring to be part of a story that truly drives the narrative.

With shows like "Anupamaa" paving the way for older actresses to headline stories again, Roy feels that the industry is finally evolving in its portrayal of mature characters. She believes this is a positive development, as the primary television audience today comprises middle-aged women, while the youth has shifted to OTT platforms.

As "Lakshmi Niwas" revolves around a mature couple, much like "Anupamaa," Roy is prepared for comparisons between the two shows. However, she maintains that the comparison should be based on the content, as each actor brings their own unique interpretation to the role. "Competition is healthy," she says, "and the only common thread is that we are slightly older women playing mature roles."