Poonam Narula Announces Acting Comeback After Two-Decade Hiatus
In a significant development for Indian television enthusiasts, popular actress Poonam Narula has revealed her decision to return to acting after an extended break of nearly two decades. The actress, best remembered for her memorable roles in iconic television shows including Kasautii Zindagii Kay, Kaahin Kissii Roz, and Shararat - Thoda Jaadu, Thodi Nazaakat, was last seen on screen in the TV series Kkusum back in 2005.
Family Support and Personal Decision Behind the Comeback
Poonam Narula emphasized that her decision to step away from acting was entirely personal and not due to lack of opportunities in the industry. "Acting is what I've done all my life, and this is what I know," she stated. "Not working was my decision. It's not that the industry didn't offer me work. Coming back is also my decision."
The actress explained that she felt the timing was now perfect for her return, as her children have grown up and she feels mentally prepared to resume her professional career. She took the extended break specifically to be present for her children during their formative years, a decision that was fully supported by her husband, actor Manish Goel.
"My decision was supported by my husband, and now when I want to get back, he's very encouraging," Poonam shared. "My kids, too, tell me, 'Please go, we'll manage.'" This family encouragement has played a crucial role in her confidence to re-enter the entertainment industry.
Adjustment Period and Recent Projects
The actress admitted that returning to work after such a prolonged absence required considerable time and adjustment. She recently completed shooting for a short film alongside her husband Manish Goel, as well as an advertisement, marking her initial steps back into professional acting.
"Returning to work after such a long break took time and adjustment," Poonam acknowledged. "But I was clear about what I wanted. I'm more prepared, more mature, and excited to begin again."
Evolution of Acting Approach and Self-Reflection
When discussing how her approach to acting has transformed over the years, Poonam revealed significant changes in her craft. "My acting is definitely different now," she observed. "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."
The actress believes that maturity gained through life experiences has substantially enhanced her acting abilities. "Maturity comes with life experience, and that really helps in acting," she explained.
In a refreshingly honest reflection on her earlier work, Poonam admitted that viewing her past performances with her son led to some surprising realizations. "Honestly, when my son showed me some of my old work, I didn't like it at all," she confessed. "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."
Future Prospects and Industry Perspectives
While television remains close to her heart, having provided her with name, fame, and immense love from audiences, Poonam expressed that content on traditional television hasn't evolved sufficiently to immediately draw her back. "TV has given me everything — name, fame, love. I'll never say no to it," she affirmed.
However, she noted that "content-wise, it's more or less the same" on television, while expressing greater excitement about opportunities on OTT platforms. "OTT has better roles and better writing, and that excites me," she revealed, indicating where her professional focus might lie in this new chapter of her career.
Poonam Narula's return to acting represents not just a professional comeback but a personal journey of growth, family support, and artistic evolution that promises to bring a more mature and nuanced performer back to Indian screens.
