Neha Joshi feels emotional while sitting on same 100-year-old bench where Atal Bihari Vajpayee used to sit

Neha Joshi, the talented actor who brings Krishna Devi Vajpayee to life in &TV’s Atal, recently embarked on a journey to Gwalior to commemorate the show’s first anniversary. This was not just another trip; it was a walk-through of history, a tribute to the leader Late Atal Bihari Vajpayee whose legacy continues to inspire millions of people. For Neha, this journey was more than a celebration of her role and it was a deeply personal experience. Determined to explore every corner of Atal Ji’s birth city, she immersed herself in the places and stories that shaped the extraordinary man. Among the highlights of her visit was a profoundly moving moment: sitting on a century-old bench, savouring Atal Ji’s favourite snack, mangodas (pakodas). This bench was not just any seat; it was where Atal Ji himself once sat, enjoying the same simple yet delightful treat. For Neha, it was as if time had folded in on itself, connecting her directly to the spirit of the mother of the man she portrays on screen. 

Reflecting on the moment, Neha Joshi aka Krishna Devi Vajpayee shares, “Sitting on this historic bench, eating his favourite pakodas, I felt a sense of surreal connection. It was not just a meal—it was a moment frozen in time. The bench held the stories of his humble beginnings, a silent witness to the simplicity and depth of Atal Ji’s life. It was more than emotional; it was transformative.”
 
The visit also led her to meet the stallkeeper who had served Atal Ji his beloved snack during his tenure as Prime Minister. The stall, unchanged over the years, still operates with the same reverence. Neha recalls, “The stall owner served the pakodas first to God and then to a framed photograph of his mother, sitting beside Atal Ji. It was a tradition rooted in respect and gratitude, and I felt incredibly honoured to be the first customer of the day. It was a gesture so simple yet so profound, embodying the timeless charm of that era.” Neha’s journey was not just about revisiting history but living it, “As an actor, I research and portray characters, but during this trip I lived his journey. Walking through the streets of Gwalior, visiting his favourite spots, and hearing stories about him brought me closer to understanding the man behind the leader. This experience has left an indelible mark on my heart and helped me bring this authenticity to my portrayal.”