DNA Exclusive: Emraan Hashmi's 'The Train' co-star Sayali Bhagat talks about motherhood, health, turning producer

Remember Emraan Hashmi's 'The Train' co-star Sayali Bhagat? She is back, this time with the digital world. More so, Sayali will work behind-the-screens this time, since she has now turned a producer.

When DNA got in touch with her, Sayali spoke about motherhood, working on her health and turning a producer. She also spoke about managing time between life and work, among many other things.

Here are some excerpts from her interview:

What would you say your time in COVID-19 looked like?

They say women are multi-taskers and it is time to understand that and have a different strategy around that.

What has your life been like after taking a break from films?

Now my child is three, and I wanted to be a hands-on mother. Now I realise that I should focus on things that matter, which also involves work, and producing something. There's also consultation and trainings that keep happening.

You have kept your private life under the wraps. Your wedding, and now, daughter, too, was a mystery. Any reason?

My husband is a very shy person. He's an introvert who isn't from the industry or from Mumbai either. He thinks it is unnecessary unless the core group knows about it. I had to explain to him that my core group involves other people too. I had to tell him that it is also my family and social place, after which he nodded his head. It is also a great time to talk because now people have time and attention to give you. I ddi get the lost attention for Ivaanka and me for all this while.

Were you involved in other activites too?

I was not working on films, but always bumping into people and friends so I never felt out of the industry. I was part of discussions and informal talks too, because I have so many friends there. I also made some efforts, reflected on content that came on platforms. I think people are now ready to accept different subjects. I had many projects in mind, and now I think there will be audience for it so I want to produce them. We are still in the screenplay stage. The projects I have are intellectual, serious and where women will be shown in a good light. It is relevant to today's thought process. Seeing the outlook towards women today makes me really sad.

Now that you are coming back on OTT, how do you plan to manage home and work life together?

It is easier said than done. There's a lot of talking, discussing and more. Most of my projects are based on real-life incidents, so sadly you don't get to do that in a home setup. I am about to finish the name of one very important character. In the middle of that, my daughter comes and tells me 'mama I need a hug'.

If going on sets, will we see Ivaanka with you too?

Of course. I think it is the perfect age. The younger they are exposed to the atmosphere, the better they get at knowing things. I will take her but how much time will she spend there is subjective.

How has motherhood changed you?

Two very important things happened to me. I took responsibility for myself and others, and I realized to not ignore myself. It was the most important thing that happened in one-two years of having Ivaanka.

How did you get back in shape after pregnancy?

I went through the process of post-pregnancy weight and lack of confidence that came with it. I was consistent. I came up with a workout routine. I also know about my diet now - that I will not cheat weekly but in 15 days.

Did you hire a fitness trainer for it?

I did it on my own, because everything is available online. The results, however, differ with everybody.

What are the list of things that you did?

I took core exercises from pilates, followed by strength training which makes you burn even when you stop exercising. I always use Zumba or dance aerobics in the beginning of the workout. It gives a happy feeling and is a nice warmup too. By tthe end of it, when I'm pretty tired with everything, then I do some treadmill or cardio. I cool down with a couple of yoga asanas, like shravasana.

From acting to producing, how did you make the switch?

I ddin't think about becoming a producer ever, but I'm ready for responsibility now. You can even do shorter projects now and people will watch you for the subject and content.

Would you now think about sharing your story about motherhood?

Of course. I would like to do that if I get a big breakthrough.

What are your future plans?

I want to see myself at a place where I make things happen for me, where I don't have to wait for projects. I hope to get like-minded audience as well.