Actor hopes TV show changes views on widow remarriage

Television actor Mishal Raheja is back on the small screen with "Ishq Ka Rang Safed", which talks about the prevailing taboo on widow remarriage. And the actor says he is hoping for a wave of change to sweep across the nation with his TV show.

"I hope it brings a change in the society because TV has such a vast reach and we are hoping it does because I don't think anyone should put restrictions on anyone's life and everyone should choose his or her own way of living," Mishal told IANS over phone from Mumbai.

"Because if someone is happy after getting remarried, then who are we to stop anyone's happiness. At the end of the day, everyone wants to be happy," he added.

With culturally rich Banaras as the backdrop of the Colors channel show, "Ishq Ka Rang Safed" shows how widows are treated in society and the consequences that unfold when a young boy Viplav (played by Mishal) falls in love with a widow Dhani (played by Eisha Singh).

The actor, best known for his roles in shows like "Laagi Tujhse Lagan", "Love Story" and "Maharakshak Aryan", also feels that "about 60 to 70 percent of TV is dominated by female-centric shows".

"But I don't think it (female-centric shows) is wrong because viewers have accepted them very well," said Mishal, adding that he has been fortunate in being a part of balanced shows.

"Maybe, I'm getting such kind of roles or I consciously pick roles where I get a lot to do. So, I have done balanced shows. Even my new show is from Viplav's point of view," he added.

It is often seen that the storyline of a show diverts from the topic on the basis of ratings. And Mishal finds nothing wrong in the practice.

"We come up with some social message, some entertainment and some drama. Eventually producers and channel are here for a commercial purpose so, if it is facilitating their purpose then why not," he said.