"Dad's guidance and husband’s supporting hand is behind my success," said Sapna Saldanha, actor and singer during Thallo Umallo programme here on October 18.

“At the tender age I became a diocesan level president. It was a turning point in my life. Though during those days girls were not allowed to participate in the mainstream, I got total support from my dad,” Ms Saldanha said.

Ms Saldanha has acted in two Tulu movies: Inchanda Yencha and Appe Teacher. “Acting with the legendary Aravind Bolar and Bojaraj Vamanjoor was a blessing,” she added. She has also acted in Konkani serials, many dramas for the past twenty three years. She has also acted in Dubai in three dramas.

Dolla Mangalore has supported her a lot, Ms Saldanha said. She remembered her dad with tears in her eyes. He passed away sometime back.

In Mamma Retired Zatha, Konkani drama, she was awarded third place in the best actress category. Apart from that, she is also a good emcee and singer. She has already sung two songs in albums and many more in nites and live orchestra.

Ms Saldanha is a teacher by profession at Cambridge CBSE school. She said that she makes time for every activity. She is an active member of Vamanjoor Parish Council and also is a ward gurkar (leader). She teaches many needy children. Finally, she said that she has only one dream, namely, that she must do her Ph.D.

Ms Saldanha was born in Cordel. After her marriage, she resides in Vamanjoor. Her husband Santhosh Saldanha and two daughters support her in every activity. She remembered Mr Roshan Kamath, her best friend, for the constant support.

Many callers greeted her and interacted with her.

- Roshan Crasta, Radio Sarang