I am more prepared & more mature now: Poonam returns to acting after 2 decades

After two decades, Poonam Narula is set to get back to what she loves doing — acting. Known for popular television shows like Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kaahin Kissii Roz and Shararat - Thoda Jaadu, Thodi Nazaakat among others, the actress was last seen in the TV show Kkusum in 2005.She says, “Acting is what I’ve done all my life, and this is what I know. Not working was my decision. It’s not that the industry didn’t offer me work. Coming back is also my decision. I felt now is the right time — my kids have grown up and I’m mentally prepared to return. I took the break to be there for my children and my decision was supported by my husband (actor Manish Goel). And now when I want to get back, he’s very encouraging. My kids, too, tell me, ‘Please go, we’ll manage.’”Poonam admits that adjusting after being away from the industry took time. She recently shot for a short film and an advertisement with Manish. The actress shares, “Returning to work after such a long break took time and adjustment. But I was clear about what I wanted. I’m more prepared, more mature, and excited to begin again.”Talking about how her approach to acting has evolved, she shares, “My acting is definitely different now. When I did a short film recently, it was very unlike what I used to do earlier. I’ve seen a lot of work, I’ve observed what’s happening around, and I’ve consciously made changes. Maturity comes with life experience, and that really helpsin acting.”Looking back at her early work, Poonam is refreshingly honest. “Honestly, when my son showed me some of my old work, I didn’t like it at all. At that time, I thought I was doing brilliant work. Now when I see it, I feel, no, no — I can do much better. I was too young. I started working when I was 16.”While television remains close to her heart, she feels content hasn’t evolved enough to draw her back instantly. “TV has given me everything — name, fame, love. I’ll never say no to it. But content-wise, it’s more or less the same. OTT has better roles and better writing, and that excites me.”