When Mumbai's floods shocked me

A page from the personal diary of Rati Pandey Talking of path-breaking moments in my life this one time that my whole life underwent a change was during the floods. When I came to Mumbai, I met with a disaster called floods. It was not very easy for me then because I was this bade ghar ke ladki and when I came here I had to stay in a one- room kitchen flat. It was a struggle for me and unfortunately for me this was Mumbai’s monsoon. It was in July when the city was struck with floods. I stayed in suburbs and it would take five hours to reach home from the nearest shopping mart. I was lucky enough to be dropped by two people back home on the horrifying day. It was difficult for me because I have never ever struggled so much in my life. My whole flat was filled with water. I had to eat biscuits because there was nothing else I could do. After some 15-20 days I got a break from Star Plus for the main lead. I was very happy because I had always thought I would do a main lead in any show I work for. But the days during the floods were the most difficult days of my life, something I can never forget. Professionally there is always a challenge when I am doing a show. I believe that there are ups and downs in one’s life, be it personally and professionally but I accept it with a smile. But one turning point in my professional life now has to be the death of Nupur in Miley Jab Hum Tum. When I was informed about the character dying in the show I had several questions in mind. I mean, why Nupur? I was completely attached to the character. I had played it well enough. I loved my life as Nupur. The viewers loved me as Nupur. I shot to fame with that character which has given me everything I am today. But I was completely shocked when the producers told me that Nupur would no longer be a part of the show. It was difficult to accept. But I am happy now. No regrets. Though I am sure my fans are finding it very difficult to accept my absence as I have been receiving loads of emails and messages. My fans have loved Nupur immensely and it is very difficult to digest her sudden disappearance from the show. I want to tell them that I am touched by their responses and appreciation for Nupur. I will reply to them very soon.