A page from the personal diary of Giaa Maanek Hello everyone…This is Giaa Maanek, on the other side, whom you know as Gopi bahu from Saath Nibhana Saathiya. Born in Ahmedabad, I was brought up in Mumbai. Here, I stay with my parents andI being the only girl child is pampered by my parents. Having completed my schooling from Shree Vallabh Ashram School in Sion and also from Vasant Vihar High School, Thane, I completed my college in Mass Media and Advertising from Ruia College. Since long I wanted to act in films. So much so, if someone would ask me if I wanted to become an actor, I would answer in the positive. Since my childhood, I was inclined to watch movies and always thought that one day I will become a star. After my graduation, I started giving auditions and after a couple of them got selected for a small role in a film titled Na Ghar Ke Na Ghaat Ke in which I played a daughter to Neena Gupta and Om Puri. I also did advertisements for brands like Amul and Vatika hair oil. But, I had an urge to play a lead role. Later, I came to know about Star Plus’ upcoming show. So I went ahead and gave my audition there and by God’s grace I got selected for the role of Gopi for Saath Nibhana Saathiya. Later, to explore my dancing skills, I opted out from Saath Nibhana Saathiya to participate in Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. I have always been of the belief that whatever happens, happens for good. I also believe that God throws bricks at you when he knows that you’ve ability to take the pain and overcome it. Undoubtedly, the character of Gopi gave me fame and recognition. This character will always be close to my heart. But my fans will soon see my comeback in SAB TV’s upcoming show Jeannie Aur Juju, an Indian adaptation of a popular American show. While I am playing the character of Jeannie in the show, Ali Asgar plays the character of Juju. My character will be very different from my earlier one. You have always seen me in sarees, but soon you will see me in a fresh new avatar; in harem pants and shimmering outfits. My journey till now has been amazing. Initially, I had to struggle a lot but I am happy with whatever I have achieved in life so far. My parents have supported me a lot though initially my dad was a bit skeptical about me taking up acting. But now, he is fine and always stands for me. On the personal front, all I can say is that I am a very talkative kind of a person. I like to sleep a lot. In my leisure time, I like to dance or go out for shopping. One thing my fans doesn’t know about me is that I am a big time brat and love to play pranks. Well this was my journey till now. Thank you everyone for liking me. I hope you will accept me in my new character. Please keep loving me…