Polka dotted sari and one-shouldered blouse, at Satya Paul; beaded necklace, at Vipul Arts; pearl ring, from Silver Stone, at Cypress. All in Mumbai.

I love the attention. I used to think that only Bollywood stars were so popular. But film stars are larger than life and fans maintain a distance from them. As Jassi, I have people coming up to me and holding my hand. I have become a part of their families.

Jassi broke the mould by not being good looking. Her thick spectacles, braces and fringe, combined with her simple outfits, made her look rather ordinary.

I had to alter my body language for the role. In real life, I am much more confident and it shows in the way I talk and move around. I watched the Spanish original – Yo Soy Betty, La Fea – and tried to walk with drooping shoulders and not look anyone straight in the eye.

Life beyond Jassi.... I know that all good things come to an end and some day, the serial will draw to a close. I would never like to break free of Jassi. I have done many shades in one role – bubbly, affectionate, unsure, trusting.... Now, I am Jessica Bedi, more attractive, poised and confident. Actually, she is more like the real-life me.

Batik silk kurta, at Shlok; yellow linen embroidered pants, at Ensemble. Both by Surily Goel. Embellished chappals, from Mt.Meru, at You; copper crystal belt, at Aftershock; turquoise watch, by Tommy Hilfiger, at Lifestyle. All in Mumbai. Square bangles, Mona’s own.	Yellow georgette kurta with beaded necklace and white linen pants, both by Surily Goel, at Shlok; mirror-work bag, by Shaan Khanna, at You; turquoise embroidered heels, at Metro; turquoise ring, at Popli Art Gallery. All in Mumbai. All diamond jewellery, at Moksh, Mumbai.	Pink silk floral poncho and printed scarf, at Satya Paul; clutch bag, at The Oak Tree; ring, by Karishma Mehra, at Joolry. All in Mumbai. Sunglasses, from Gucci; diamanté belt, from London flea market. Jeans, Mona’s own.