Zalak Desai on playing Khyati in Anupamaa: “Her calm nature sets her apart”

As we celebrate the power and resilience of women this International Women's Day, we turn the spotlight on the talented and graceful Zalak Desai, who plays Khyati in Deepa Shahi and Rajan Shahi's popular show Anupamaa. With her poise, talent, and thoughtful perspectives, Zalak exemplifies the very spirit of womanhood.

For Zalak, inspiration has always come from remarkable women. "I've always looked up to my mother, but since she's not around, I think currently one of my biggest role models would be Sudha Murthy. I really adore her and the way she gives out such beautiful messages with such simplicity and humour. It’s just amazing, and she definitely has great life lessons to give. She is definitely someone that I look up to," Zalak shares.

Reflecting on the evolving portrayal of women in Indian television, Zalak draws a powerful parallel between fiction and reality. "A few years back, there was definitely a more conservative nature shown in women’s characters. But today, they’re evolving just like Anupamaa herself. From where the show started to where she is today, her journey is incredible. She’s become so much more confident, speaks up for what she believes in, supports other women, believes in women empowerment, and stands as a big example of strength and resilience. Even Raahi’s character in the show reflects the modern woman, strong-headed, career- and goal-oriented, yet beautifully balancing her love and family life."

However, Zalak also acknowledges the harsh realities women still face in society. "While television shows have started portraying women in stronger positions, there are still areas, especially in rural parts of our country, where women aren’t given equal opportunities or treated equally. Shows that reflect these stories may still depict more subdued characters because that remains a hard reality," she observes.

While television shows have started portraying women in stronger positions, there are still areas, especially in rural parts of our country, where women aren’t given equal opportunities or treated equally.

- Zalak Desai

When it comes to her personal favorite roles, Zalak feels most connected to Rukmini. "The kind of layers that character had were incredible. She was a goddess, yet she had emotional qualities just like any human. That character definitely remains very special to me."

As for Khyati, the character she currently plays in Anupamaa, Zalak sees both strengths and room for growth. "Khyati is someone who really loves her husband and performs all her duties as a daughter-in-law, a mother, a wife, and the eldest bahu of the house. But if there’s one thing I’d like to change about her, it would be for her to speak up, to voice her opinions and stand for what’s right. Maybe in her own subtle way, but she needs to learn to oppose what’s wrong," Zalak suggests.

Despite this, Khyati’s strengths lie in her calm and balanced approach. "She really knows how to manage situations and relationships, keeping the family together. She doesn’t react instantly; she waits for the right moment and then puts her point across. That calmness and balance are definitely her greatest strengths," she shares