SONALI NIKAM makes a comeback after two years to play Mary in &TV’s Yeshu. She speaks with SHALINI SAKSENA about her role, what attracted her to this project and how she got into acting
You were away for two years, what kept you busy?
After Ek Vivah Aisa Bhi, I took a break to focus on my health. I did receive a couple of offers during this period but they didn’t quite make the cut. But I recently did a cameo in ZEE TV’s Qurbaan Hua as a second lead.
What is your role in Yeshu?
The character of Mary, Yeshu’s mother, is a significant one. She will guide and nurture her son to his life purpose. Often described as a gentle mother and a peaceful dove in a hymn, Mary is a brave woman who has immense faith and a strong belief in God. Throughout her life, she is seen holding on to the truth and believes in living by example. Right from her childhood till the time she becomes a mother, Mary is seen cherishing every moment and fulfilling all expectations of not only a mother but also a wife
What made you say yes to the role?
The reason why I said yes is because this story has never been told on TV. We have only heard of this role but nobody has ever played it. I consider it a blessing that I got an opportunity to play Mary. To be chosen to portray this role is a big moment for me. It is completely different from the roles I have played till now. There are many dimensions to her character. She is a dutiful daughter to her parents, a companion and friend to her cousin, a loyal and loving wife to Joseph, a guiding force to her son Yeshu. The role comes with responsibility as well.
What is the story of Yeshu?
The story is not only the most iconic story of good versus evil, but it also captures the beautiful relationship between Yeshu and his support and guide, his mother. This role is a reward and a big responsibility. I am eagerly looking forward to it.
How did you come on board this project?
I got the role after giving auditions. I got a call from the makers; they had seen my previous work and felt that I would fit the character of Yeshu’s mother. They called me for the auditions and recorded the same since it happened during the lockdown. I gave two-three auditions and gave a mock shoot. After that all the things were finalised after discussions.
How tough is it to play Mary?
I had to prepare for the character. We got a lot of briefings from our creative and research team. We have the support of the channel and the makers as well. Due to their help we came to know so many things about Yeshu’s life and how people behaved during that time. This helped me a lot to prepare for Mary’s character. Iused to meditate earlier as well, but I started spending more time and focused on it. This character is sweet, soft and sombre. The more I am calm inside, the more it will translate into my acting.
What made Jassi so popular?
There were two reasons. One, was the story itself. Second, of course was the character of Jassi herself in Aadhe Adhoore. It is not very often we get to see a role like hers. We don’t discuss thing that have been shown in the series. This is probably the reason why people loved to watch it. I am grateful and blessed that I have been getting a chance to do such varied roles.
How did you get into acting?
After graduation, I was still trying to decide what to pursue when I got a call to do an ad from a family friend. When I went there and saw what the industry was all about, I wanted to work here. I was not the kind to work 9 am to 5 pm and sit in front of the computer. I was looking at the work that would give me a chance to express myself creatively. Acting gave me that outlet.
Is there a role that left its mark on you?
I would say Jassi has been a benchmark for me — professionally as well as personally. There were so many questions that I had from life, after doing this show, it made me realise that there is no right or wrong in life; it all depends on one’s perception and situation one finds himself in. We are nobody to judge anybody. I learnt a lot from that role. Also people started recognising me as a good actor.
