Pooja Sharma, who we better know as Mahabharat's Draupadi, is a sweet, professional, chirpy and pretty girl. She never thought of playing Draupadi until she realized that she is the one among millions, who will be making history on the Indian Television once again, after actor Roopa Ganguly in the 1980s. We managed to get her talking while she was on a short break from shoot. And, the girl did not cease to speak to us until she got a call from her director. Excerpts from the conversation:
How did you get through the auditions of Draupadi's role?
One fine day I took a call from the Siddharth Kumar Tewary's production house asking me to come for an audition. I was procrastinating at the idea of paying Draupadi at that time. I told them that I will come tomorrow for the audition. During the audition, I was given two scenes to prepare. First, I had to give an introduction to myself as Draupadi and talk about myself as a fire born princess and her qualities. Second, I was supposed to enact this monologue with Bheeshma Pitamah. To my surprise, I managed to pass the test. But that time I was not sure what I was getting into. Before I could decide, I got the role. And, it all happened very quickly.
How did you prepare for the role?
Oh, I am living Draupadi's life daily. I knew quite a lot about Draupadi even before joining the show. But having said that, there was a lot about her I have learnt on the sets. Honestly, there is a lot of sweat and blood I am putting into my work. (laughs)
How much time does it take for you to get ready for the shoot?
Getting ready with my hair, make-up, attire and jewelry is very time consuming. All those elaborate costumes and jewelry you see on-screen look very beautiful but it is very difficult to carry these things for a long time. But yes, it takes 2.5 to 3 hours daily for me to get ready.
Are crazy fan mails coming in?
(laughs) To be honest, I really don't have time check those crazy fan mails as my work takes up most of my time.
How would you choose your husband in your Swayamvar as Pooja Sharma not as Draupadi?
I think what is more important is basic love and understanding in every relationship. So yes, my relationship with my husband will be totally based on love, compatibility and understanding.
How is Pooja in real life - traditional ala Draupadi or modern?
I am quite like today's girl - young, educated, career oriented and simple. But, I also connect with Draupadi in the sense that she was somebody who had a voice and opinion. And, she also had the courage to voice her opinion. I, too, have been brought up in an environment where people are encouraged to say things that they feel are correct.
Please tell us about your personal background?
I was born and brought up in Delhi and also did my education from the capital city. While I was in college, I started hosting shows on DD National. That stint worked for me as I got a phone call from Zoom channel to work for them. I auditioned for Zoom and got selected by them as an anchor. Then after, I moved to Bombay and hosted shows like Planet Bollywood, Popcorn News and Page 3. I also did TV ads for Garnier, Fair & Lovely and Parachute. I was also modeling for the ramp etc. After that, I also got a chance to work for one of the episodes of Star Plus's TV series Teri Meri Love Story. That was how I got noticed by the channel. After some time, I got a call from Mahabharat, and here I am, playing Draupadi and so confused! (smiles and shrugs shoulders).
Did you always want to be actor?
I was always inclined towards performing arts. I was participating in debates and dramatics, but I did not that I would become an actor as I have done a different range of work on TV.
Any message for Pinkvilla readers?
This is just my start and I am glad to know that the readers are enjoying the show. I am only hoping that my hardwork and sincerity get appreciated by them and they continue to like watching the show. More love and life to my fans!