Reena Sharma
Reena Sharma is super fun, passionate, and bubbly to the max. She also happens to be eight-years-old. Our starring heroine is absolutely crazy about ANYTHING related to Bollywood. Reena once watched—count ‘em—three movies in a row! She loves dancing and tandoori chicken equally. Reena dreams of becoming a world famous Indo-American actress.
Dr. Shelly Sharma (Reena’s mom.)
Dr. Shelly Sharma moved to Chicago from New Delhi during the 1980s. Though, she’s been living in the U.S.A. for many years she still calls India “home.” She’s the eldest of two children, and very traditional in her views. Dr. Shelly Sharma is proud to say she’s had an arranged marriage, and that she’s a third-generation homeopathic doctor. She has a soft spot for ethnic art from rural parts of India.
Dr. Ashok Sharma (Reena’s dad.)
Dr. Ashok Sharma believes in rules and discipline. He encourages his only child, Reena, to always show respect to her elders. During the day, Dr. Ashok Sharma works at a medical clinic that specializes in treating cancer patients. He originally came to the U.S.A. to pursue his postgraduate studies, but decided to stay back as he recognized the States affords many opportunities. Dr. Ashok Sharma is a stronger believer in family unity, and had no problem in helping his in-laws immigrate to Chicago from New Delhi, India.
Nani (Reena’s grandmother.)
Nani is Reena’s maternal grandmother. She lost her husband two years ago, and now fills her days caring for her family. Nani loves to cook traditional Indian dishes, and has a sari collection so beautiful it really should be featured in a fashion magazine. Nani enjoys crocheting in her spare time, and listening to old, classical Indian music. Reena is her only grandchild.
Uncle Jessi (Reena’s uncle.)
Uncle Jessi is the younger brother of Reena’s mom. He’s a mechanical engineer by profession, and has a to-die-for employment resume for someone who’s just thirty-years-old. Uncle Jessi is thrilled to have just moved to the States from India. He’s wanted to immigrate for a long time. Uncle Jessi and Reena have been writing back and forth as pen pals for years. He’s the only person in Reena’s family who first encourages her dream to become a Bollywood actress. However, Uncle Jessi crosses the line and proves to be a selfish, dangerous man.