Neeluji, as she is fondly known, gained immense popularity with her television debut in Star Plus’ mega hit, Diya Aur Bati Hum post her stint in her acclaimed Rajasthani films. We at Tellychakkar.com get into a candid chat with the Bhabo of Indian television, Neelu Vaghela as she talks about her journey as an actor and producer. States Neelu, “Well, Diya Aur Baati Hum was my first dash in Hindi entertainment and I am truly amazed at the response the show’s character Bhabo has generated. Nor me or the show’s producers and director thought that Bhabo would get so popular. Forget the television viewing housewives, educated and well literate men rush home to watch the show and if they are travelling they ask their wives to record the episodes on television to watch it when they return. People just cannot get enough of Diya Aur Baati Hum.” Neelu claims that she was initially not convinced on essaying the character as the way Bhabo handles situations that are posed in the show is something she personally did not connect with. She avers, “I was apprehensive but now that I am essaying Bhabo, I have started connecting with her in my real life too. I mean one needs to be really strong to hold a family together. When we called our ancestors strict, cold and heartless, we forgot that there are so many emotions they controlled to hold the family together. I feel every household needs one Bhabo.” Talking about her movies and stint in the telly industry Neelu remarks, “TV has given me popularity but Rajasthani films have given me the confidence to perform my best as an actor.” A mother to a 12 year old Vanshika and 7 year old Kaizer, Neelu has not only been an inspiration to women who cannot think they cannot work post the age of 50 but also has encouraged them to shake a leg and be on their toes. “When the viewers saw me in Nach Baliye, they expressed how they have now started dancing and performing at their children’s sangeet functions. I am truly amazed with the unconditional love being showered upon me.“ Little would people know that the talented lady who has worked in more than 50 Rajasthani films and has charmed the audience in the television industry owns a production house promoting Rajasthani talent. She expresses, “Yes I own a production house titled Aruneel Films and we produce Rajasthani movies. I have earned my name respect and admiration only from Rajasthan and I do not want the culture to die. We as a production house aim to cast fresh faces that can use the platform to make a mark in Bollywood.” Way to go Neelu!!!