Known for shows like Miley Jab Hum Tum and Hitler Didi, RATI PANDEY never thought of exploring the mythological genre. She speaks with MUSBA HASHMI about what made her say yes to Dangal TV’s Devi... and the challenges that came with it

What made you take up Devi Aadi Parishakti?

Initially, it was because of my relationship with Swastik Productions. Siddharth and Rahul Tewary are like a family. I am very thankful to them because whenever I have worked with them, it never felt that I am working for a producer.  They convinced me to play Parvati.

Were there any apprehensions before saying yes?

When I was approached for the show, I was a little apprehensive because it was a mythological show and I hadn’t done these kind of roles before, but they convinced me to do it. Now that I have stepped into it, it has been a great experience so far.

Did you have to go out of your comfort zone to get into the skin of the character?

Mythological shows are comparatively difficult as they are a costume drama. So I did have to step out of my comfort zone quite a bit, be it the makeup, the clothes or the accessories, all of them are extravagant. It takes almost four-five people and quite a few hours of putting it together. Not only this but even the language used is unlike what we speak for the daily soaps — shudh Hindi. Sometimes it takes extra effort to understand the meaning of the dialogues and then perform.

How did acting happen?

It started back in 2006. I started my professional journey with Tollywood which I didn’t want to continue because of homesickness and other issues. Later, when I started doing TV shows, I was offered to play lead characters. The viewers liked my performance. Then I started enjoying the process. However, I still feel there is a lot more to do in life considering no age factor.

How easy or difficult was it to be a part of the industry?

It was easy working in the TV industry. I have completed 14 years now and there is a vast difference from the time we used to work before and now. There is so much hate and hurry now. Sometimes you don’t have time for yourself. I feel there should be lesser episodes and lesser time duration so that the actor can breathe and enjoy what they are doing. Also, there is been stagnancy at some point.

A role that comes close to you?

All these shows and roles are equally important for me. I had put in equal efforts and was equally passionate about them all. Furthermore, I have enjoyed all my roles to the fullest because all of them were unique in their own way. Having said that, Mile Jab Hum Tum will always be very close to my heart. The role of Nupur was unique.

What kept you busy during the lockdown?

Honestly, I needed time with my family, especially my parents and my niece and the lockdown helped me. I have spent quality time with them and their happy faces are what that keeps me going. We are all going through this pressing situation together.

The world is facing the wrath of this virus together. It is a very stressful situation and now we all are working towards as much normalcy as possible. Not everyone can stay at home, some people are depressed and upset because of difficult with every passing day. My message to all those people is to have a positive attitude and let’s fight this together. Please reach out to the right kind of help whenever needed.

Upcoming projects?

Nothing in the pipeline yet. But I am all in for new interesting opportunities and exploring new things like web series and short films.