Exclusive: "Ashalata shouldn't have gone for TV shoot amid Corona scare," says old friend and veteran actor Usha Nadkarni

Veteran Marathi actress Ashalata Wabgaokar, who had tested positive for COVID-19 a few days ago while working on the set of Aai Mazi Kalubai, passed away today (September 22). The entire entertainment industry is mourning the sad demise of Ashalata and her close friend Usha Nadkarni of Bigg Boss Marathi season 1 fame is one of them. In an exclusive chat with Etimes TV, Usha Nadkarni recalled her relationship with Ashalata, their Maherchi Sadi memories, and why senior actors should keep their fitness in mind before accepting any project. (PC - Instagram)

Interview by - Vaishnavi Gavankar

Ashalata was so cool, humble and lovable. I never saw her getting hyper and angry. We both were shooting for Maherchi Sadi (a successful Marathi film). I, Alka Kubal, and Ashalata, used to discuss a lot of things on the sets. Ashalata's room and mine were so close while shooting. So we both had a great time together." (PC - Instagram)

I feel before accepting any project these days, I feel everyone should think about their age, health and fitness. The current scenario of COVID-19 is not at all good for senior actors who are above the age of 50 or those who are dealing with health issues." (PC - Instagram)

Ashalata shouldn't have gone for shooting at this age. I also heard that she was shooting day and night and it's really horrible to even think about it due to COVID-19. People are not thinking about their age and capacity these days. (PC - Instagram)

The actress feels outdoor shootings have high chances of COVID-19 spread. She said, "Ashalata is almost 80 now and she could have thought twice before signing the project. Also, the shooting was happening outdoors. There are high chances to get affected with COVID-19." (PC - Instagram)

Usha Nadkari was approached for Bigg Boss Hindi season 14 and the actress stated that she refused the offer thinking about her health. She said, "I am also getting various offers. Bigg Boss Hindi Season 14 makers also approached me but I rejected the offer thinking about my health. I am a diabetic and asthmatic too. So, it's like taking a risk. Earlier, I had said yes to them but later I thought again about the current scenario and realized that I shouldn't participate. The makers requested me for a guest appearance also but I clearly said no. Our health should be our priority and these things we can do later also." (PC - Instagram)

- Interview by Vaishnavi Gavankar