Misri Pandey adds her own unique flavour to Maddam Sir! 

•    How does it feel to be associated with Sony SAB's Maddam Sir? What made you come back to the show after such a long time?

•    It feels great to be associated with 'Maddam Sir,' given how it's such a reputable show for women empowerment and generates tremendous social media engagement. Gulki, in fact, is my college friend. Moreover, the team and the show are incredible. It has aired for 2 years and given us over 500 episodes. Misri's character is deeply loved by all on social media, and I've received the same feedback in person - how she's unique, though grey but a little charming in her own way. 

I had been playing the goody two shoes’ characters so far. Naturally, when a negative role comes my way, I don't feel much connected to their story. However, I have developed a connection with Misri. It's a multi-layered and complex role, which I was happy to take up.

•    What kind of preparations did you undergo to play the role of Misri Pandey?

•    I had to familiarize myself with the local dialect, as the show is based out of Lucknow. Their usage of the Hindi language is slightly different from what I was acquainted with in general. The Devnagri script demands its own preparation. I also had to learn about the mannerisms of a cop to do justice to the role - how a policewoman behaves, their etiquette, etc.

•    Tell us a bit about Misri Pandey.

•    She is a playful character who endorses nepotism, and why not?! Charity starts at home. Why would she miss out on the advantages? Funnily enough, she is lazy and demands quick solutions to her problems. It doesn't bother her how others perceive her, but just cares about her wealth as a corrupt cop. However, Misri Pandey adds her own unique flavour to 'Maddam Sir.' If the world is not replete with questionable people, we wouldn't be able to differentiate between the good and the bad ones either. I think Misri is then that "tadka" in Haseena Malik and Karishma Singh's life in 'Maddam Sir.'

•    How is it shooting with your co actors? Any fun memories that you would like to share?

•    It's wonderful to work with an all-women team anywhere – be it co-actors, fellow office employees, anyone. In today's time, there are only a handful of instances wherein co-actors’ gel well together, or a group of girls have an unbreakable bond. This team is one support system that helps you grow, rather than fostering unhealthy competition. 

When I was first offered the character of Misri, I knew Gulki was the main lead. She didn't know I was in the show then. Gulki used to be my college senior, hence our interaction was limited. But I planned to surprise her with my role and succeeded! It was incredible connecting with her after so long and felt like a new beginning for both of us. We exchanged fun memories about college, as well. Even on the set, we were constantly entertained while working at the same time.

•    Misri is a grey character. How does it feel to portray a negative role on TV?

•    Misri is a great character because her ambitions and ways are different. Her relationship towards everyone in Mahila Police Thana is also distinctive. I was skeptical of playing a negative role because of the fear of typecasting. But there was something so unique about playing Misri. It is not a typical negative role wherein I pray for the downfall of other women. In fact, she is just concerned about her personal ambitions, instead of being stuck in a love triangle or something similar. She cares about being a leader by hook or by crook, even if that means using her uncle or father's assistance as a corrupt officer. As the perfect blend of naughtiness and ambition, she is set apart from other characters. Stepping out of my comfort zone to play Misri Pandey garnered immense love from the fans. She captures the perfect contrast of sweet and spicy for me!

•    What are your strengths as an actor?

•    I have a photographic memory. When I get my script, I remember it distinctly in one flow. From being a "rattu tota" in school and improving my presentation skills to my current role, I've come a long way. 

I also like to be well prepared and do my research before playing a character. This helps me unpack their backstory and takes off the pressure of rote learning the script. Furthermore, by understanding the Lucknowi dialect of delivering dialogues, I let my performance speak for me. 

•    What is your mantra for success?

•    My mantra is simple – try and lead a comfortable life and do what you love. It is important to strike a balance between your health, work and personal life, which ultimately helps you gain appreciation for your roles as well. While treading towards success, I give equal importance to a soulful life.

•    What can the audience expect out of Misri Pandey in the upcoming episodes?

•    Whenever Misri appears, she comes with problems and interesting twists. Finding solutions for them is equally tricky! Being the SHO, she is endowed with power and doesn't hesitate in exercising it at the Mahila Police Thana. She wants to be in control as the boss and replace Haseena Malik. Whether she succeeds or not, time will tell! 

•    Any message for your fans?

•    As an actor, appreciation and admiration from my fans means a lot to me. I earnestly hope to receive the same love for all my characters as Misri did, and I promise to keep you entertained!