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My Aim Is Only To Serve People, Says Elina Dash





My Aim Is Only To Serve People, Says Elina Dash

She rose to fame as the effervescent young actress in the famous music video album song “Mora Bhugala re Bhalahauthila.” But unlike many other album artists who fizzle out after a few releases, Elina Dash kept the album audience hooked with her charm and talent, going on to act in more than 500 album songs. She later acted in many Odia TV serials and made a mark on small screen too. But her acting career has now taken a backseat as she nurtures her passion for social service. Having joined the Biju Janata Dal party, she is actively involved in politics and social service. In conversation with MCL, she talks about her acting career and political ambitions. Excerpts.

You’ve been a popular actor in Odia albums and on television. How did you enter politics?

Since I was a child, I have always loved being involved in some kind of social work and help others in need. My father used to celebrate my birthdays at orphanages. That is where I realised the joy of helping and sharing with others.

Later when I started going for election campaigns, the love that I received from people was overwhelming. Their hopes and expectations have motivated me and helped me take this decision to serve the people. I feel politics gives you the best platform to serve and reach out to people. So, politics was an obvious choice for me.

You started your career with Odia music albums. So far, you have done over 500 albums. But having witnessed a decline over time, albums are back in business. What do you think about it?

After doing a roaring business initially when they came into vogue, the trend of making music video albums declined, and almost stopped for a few years. Since now that they are back into business with some good albums being made, I think the album industry will now become more profitable.

Talking about politics, two of Ollywood’s superstars, Anubhav Mohanty and Siddhanta Mohapatra are now Members of Parliament. How have they contributed to the development of the industry?

See! This can’t be done overnight. It will take a few years. Both Anubhav Mohanty and Siddhanta Mohapatra have given a lot to the industry through their acting. They are doing what they can for the industry and help it grow.

Political parties these days usually rope in celebrities for the election campaigns. What is your opinion about it?

People generally see celebrities in movies and on television. So, when they get an opportunity to see their favourite celebrities in person, they are definitely excited. Political parties use them as crowd pullers. But I don’t think they can motivate the voters or have any impact on the election result.

Off late, you have been spotted frequently, campaigning with Ollywood actor Barsha Priyadarshini. Photos of both of you are on social media. So, is she joining the BJD party?

Barsha and I are good friends. We even share the same thoughts of working for the welfare of people and spreading more love and smiles. We usually attend and participate in different festivals together. We started this practice last year on Dusshera when we spent our time with some destitute women living in Bidanasi, Cuttack.

As far as Barsha is concerned, she has no interest in politics and wants to devote her time and efforts in doing social work. I don’t think she will join any political party.

Rumours are ripe about Anubhav and Barsha’s rift because of Anubhav’s alleged affair with actress Elina Samantray. Does this rumour hold any truth?

There is no issue between Anubhav and Barsha. Their marital life is quite happy. Such rumours are quite common in the entertainment industry and these baseless controversies are usual when both the husband and wife are leading stars. This should not be a matter of concern.

What are your plans in politics?

My sole aim is to serve the people of our state. Besides, I am keen to work for the party as our supremo Shri Naveen Patnaik commands us to do so.

You have been away from acting for a long time. Will you ever return to the screen if given an offer?

I receive many requests from my fans on social media to get back to acting. They say how they love my acting and miss it. Considering how much my fans still love me, I will definitely make a comeback if offered to play a character of my choice.

Watch our exclsuive interview with her: 

Author: Jyoti Prakash Sahoo

Hailing from the entertainment industry, Jyoti started his career as a cine journalist in 2017. He is an anchor, actor and creative writer too. Currently working as the Content Head of the Odia entertainment YouTube channel 'Mo TV', Jyoti also loves to write human interest and positive stories that can inspire the readers.

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