This is what Avni Patil aka Shweta Munshi had to say when we spoke to her about the show: her role, experiences of working with veteran actors like Aishwarya Narkar and Rohini Hattangadi and much more.
Tells us something about Avni, the character?
Avni is a very ordinary and simple girl, who is the bread-earner of the family. She has solely taken the responsibility of her mother, two sisters and a brother. She struggles a lot in life to help her mother and to make her siblings independent. The driving force of her life is her family's happiness.
How is Shweta Munshi in real life?
It's tough for me to describe myself. But I can say that Avni and Shewta have few things in common- simplicity and the determination to be independent. Like Avni, I too am aware of my responsibilities towards my family.
What do you think of Dor's concept about daughter's taking up the responsibility of her parents after marriage?
The concept is great! In modern times people need to broaden their mind set and welcome few changes for the groW*H and development of the society. How can a girl one fine day after marriage not feel connected to her family? For the women, both 'maayka' and 'sasural' are home. In-laws need to understand this little thing- and the lives of hundreds of women will change for good! I personally know few women who have been sharing the responsibility of their family. I have my fingers crossed for the positive response the show has been getting.
What kind of research did you do for this role?
Nothing really! The entire credit goes to Anshuman, the director of this show. He described Avni's character so beautifully that no outside help was needed! Also, Dor is a remake of a South Indian serial, so I did watch some episodes to get a feel of both- the show and the character. I spoke to few girls who relate to Avni's character and knowing their day-to-day struggle, made it easier for me to play Avni.
How is it working with renowned actors like Aishwarya Narkar aka Kaveri and Rohini Hattangdi aka Lata?
It's wonderful to work with actors of their caliber. Aishwarya Narkar who plays my mother is just like a mother off-screen too! She is very emotional and helpful and guides me throughout the shoot. She helps me with the pronunciation of certain Marathi words in the dialogues. What can I say about veteran actress Rohiniji? She is so grounded and so innovative in her acting. Although I haven't shot much with her, it was nice to meet her.
Dor features a Maharashtrian family. Can you speak Marathi?
The show caters to the Hindi speaking audience so there is a limited use of Marathi language. However, if I get stuck with the Marathi words, my on-screen mother is there for me.
Do you think Bhaskar and his family will accept the unique condition you put before them?
I have no clue but one thing is for sure that I will stick to my terms as I don't see anything wrong with it! It is my responsibility to look after my family. If his family agrees to it then I won't mind marrying Bhaskar. I hope his family understands and supports me with the same.
Apart from Kaveri, you also share special relationship with Lord Ganesha. Are you spiritually inclined or religious in real life?
Yes. In real life I am equally spiritual and religious. I feel praying gives you peace of mind and strength. In my real life I'm a strong follower of Sai Baba and it is because of his blessings I'm here today.
Will Bhaskar and his family accept Avni's terms and conditions? Will Avni find out Bhaskar's real intentions? Will they get married?
For all this and more, don't forget to watch Maayke Se Bandhi... Dor every Monday to Friday at 8.30 pm only on STAR Plus.
Indian Idol 15
