Rachanaa Parulkkar opens up about playing a strong and fearless character in Sony SAB’s Maddam Sir

1. You've been back on television after a year's break. Can you tell us a little about how you were approached for Sony SAB's Maddam Sir?

Yes, I am back on the screen after a short break. The reason being, I did not want to do the same cliché character of damsel in distress or the girl next door. I wanted to do something different and unique that the audience will enjoy. I believe the audience today is changing and hence it is important to play a character that they can relate to and the one I enjoy portraying. While I was looking out for good and unique roles, the makers of Maddam Sir reached out to me. When I heard the role of Chingari Gang in the show and how my character would look, all my doubts and questions were cleared. I was also following the storyline of Maddam Sir and how well it was doing. Without any doubt, I had to agree to be a part of Maddam Sir!!

2. What motivated you to be a part of the show?

The character itself was the source of my motivation. I have never played such an authoritative character and the best part is, I get to expand my vision and capabilities as an actress. The look, the body language, and the language itself are so much different than usual. Also, I always wanted to play a gangster or a character that brings out the rowdy side of me. So I think this is a good opportunity for me to explore and add this feather to my cap! 

3. Can you tell us more about the Chingari gang and how it will contribute to the show?

Chingari Gang is not an evil gang, their intentions are pure and they believe in delivering immediate justice. They wish to help and look after women who are facing problems in their daily life. Although they do it for social purposes and of course because they understand the troubles that women face everyday, their mindset differs from that of the cops at Mahila Police Thana. The main crux of this Chingari Gang is to give justice immediately which the women deserve. As per the story build up, Shivani wanted to become a lawyer, but she couldn’t due to a mishap in her life. When her family disowned her, she left the house, strongly stood for herself and got the justice she deserved. She is not a lawyer in the show, but she knows how to proceed to get that justice. Shivani Tai’s way is different, but her intentions and her thinking are right.

4. What will your character look like in Maddam Sir?

Shivani Tai is supremely strong and a little emotional. She is authoritative and carries the aura, personality, and attitude of an iron-willed person. She is not scared of anything, mostly because she has gone through a lot. She is also very empathetic to the problems of women and stands for their rights, but she doesn’t believe in taking action against someone to create unnecessary face-off. She is somebody who is intelligent, calm and she processes things very well. These few qualities help her positively to help others and solve a problem.

5. Since Maddam Sir shows four brave police officers in an empowering and positive light, what are your thoughts on the concept of the show?

I strongly feel the concept of Maddam Sir is well thought out and is beyond the common saas-bahu shows that portray women to be sensitive, naive and emotional. I think for the first time there is a show on women cops who are strong, witty and sensible that pans it out really well. Every character has a different personality, and a different shade of character to play. This has been going on for two years now and  I believe this is a really interesting project.

6. You have worked with Yukti Kapoor in the past, how does it feel to be associated with her again?

I have worked with Yukti in the past for a show that was very different from Maddam Sir. From the initial days of shooting, the  both of us instantly connected and are fond of each other. It's really fun to be around here. I’m extremely happy to be associated with the entire cast and crew of Maddam Sir. From day one of shooting they have been so welcoming and generous towards us three.  We all are serious about our work but during our breaks we have an absolutely great time. The ambience on set is so positive and energizing that it feels nice to be here and work together.

7. The Chingari gang is om-air, what is the feedback from the viewers?

Oh my god! The responses have been amazingly positive. Everyone has appreciated the rowdy entry and attitude of Chingari gang. Not only my fans and well-wishers, but my family too is very excited to see this side of me and the gang. I was very excited to see myself on screen and be a critic of how well I’ve portrayed the character, as this is the first time I’m doing such a different role. The entry episode recently went live a few days back and I really liked the outcome of the shoot. With a few more episodes, I’m really looking forward to the audience and fans' reaction.

8. A message for your fans, please?

I would like to tell my fans, especially my family, please keep encouraging me and keep showering all your love. I promise to give my best and I hope everyone can connect to my character. Keep watching Maddam Sir on Sony SAB, Monday to Saturday, 10PM.