Surbhi Jyotis generation leap

Surbhi Jyoti is part of the new breed of actors gaining popularity. With her show 'Qubool Hai' posting a generation leap, we spoke to her about her new act. Some excerpts...

To what do you attribute the popularity of your earlier character in 'Qubool Hai'?
Today people recognise me as Zoya Ahmed Farooqui, which gives assures me that my efforts have paid off. Zoya as a character has reached out to the hearts of the audiences with her simplicity, indomitable spirit and most importantly her unconditional love. She was a headstrong girl with a positive approach, who didn't hesitate speaking her mind. I have fans across all age groups who affirm that Zoya is an unforgettable character. Now her daughter Sanam will have some mannerisms of Zoya and I am enjoying being Sanam as much as I loved playing Zoya. Also, the upcoming track is interesting and I am sure our viewers will enjoy it thoroughly.

And your take on the generation leap?
I feel blessed that I got an opportunity to play two distinct characters (Zoya and Sanam) in one show. This leap, which was always a part of the natural progression of the show, will have viewers on the edge of their seats as they're about to witness some high-voltage drama. I really look forward to playing the character of Asad-Zoya's daughter, as it will give me an opportunity to showcase an altogether different personality. We are sure that Sanam and Aahil (Karanvir Bohra) will recreate the amazing chemistry that was shared by Asad and Zoya when they started their journey. I am really excited and overwhelmed by the positive feedback I have been receiving on my traditional look on the show.

Tell us about your new character, post the leap?
Post the 20 year leap, I essay the character of Sanam (daughter of Asad and Zoya). She has been raised by her grandmother after her parents were killed in a tragic accident. Owing to certain untoward situations in her life, she runs a dhaba and has been the sole breadwinner for her family very young. Interestingly she will imbibe the characteristics of both Asad and Zoya. The audience will see many glimpses of Asad-Zoya in Sanam and will be reminded of them in her mannerisms. Though Sanam has been brought up in a completely different set up, she has the same effervescence and positive attitude towards life as her mother Zoya. The best part about playing Sanam is the fact that I get to speak in Punjabi along with Urdu. In real life, I am a true Punjabi. I love the fact that I can extend it to on screen too.

How have you prepared for this difficult new character?
I have worked hard to get the correct body language, diction and look for the character of Sanam. Being Zoya was a lot more convenient because I just had to wear casuals and didn't have to stick to a hairstyle in particular. With Sanam, the look is a lot more well planned and it takes longer to get ready. Along with the look, I am learning sign language on the sets as my character Sanam has a differently abled cousin Hayaa (Surbhi Chandna), so both of us have learnt sign language to make our character relatable and authentic. We have used common gestures so that the audience can easily convey our emotions. It was quite challenging for me to pick up the sign language within a short span of time. Post the leap, my fans will get to see a new dimension to me as an actor.
Surbhi seems to have it all under her control; no doubt she'll pull it off.