Come July 20th, &TV’s #EkMahanayakDrBRAmbedkar will move into a new phase with #NarayaniMaheshVarne roped in to play #RamabaiBhimraoAmbedkar. Nayi sadi, naya shehar, naya vichaar, par bhedabhau…asamaanata ka nahi chuta hai saath. Bhimrao karenge asaamanta ke khilaf sangharsh ki shuruaat, kya aap iss nyay ki ladai mein denge Bhimrao ka saath? In conversation with Narayani Mahesh Varne talking about her character of Ramabai, the preparation for the role and much more.
Ek Mahanayak Dr B.R. Ambedkar is your first Hindi television show; how did you bag the role?
I had to undergo a series of auditions to be selected for the role. I was on cloud nine when I was informed about my selection for the part. The show Ek Mahanayak Dr B.R. Ambedkar is one of the most popular shows on Indian television today. Getting an opportunity to play the role of Ramabai Ambedkar is a great honour and a moment of pride. I have been watching the show closely, and it is one of my and my family most favourite show. I had never imagined that I would be portraying an important role in the show one day. But I am excited and elated to be chosen to essay Ramabai’s role and look forward to a wonderful learning experience.
You are portraying such an important role; how did you prepare for it?
To get into the character’s skin, I am going through various reading materials and detailed briefings from the eminent researcher on the show, Hari Narke Sir. We also have a workshop conducted by him to prep each of us for the role by giving us in-depth insights and understanding into our characters. As for the look, the screen tests have been done and accordingly, it has been finalised. Other *nuances* will be fine-tuned alongside the shooting of the episodes.
Tell us about your character of Ramabai?
Ramabai Bhimrao Ambedkar was Babasaheb’s wife. She was quite expressive and strong-headed, with a belief system of ‘Naya Savera, Naya Jeevan’. It is her unwavering faith that helped her overcome all challenging situations. She held her head high amidst the social injustices and atrocities. Although Ramabai did not receive any formal education, it did not hinder her from standing up for the injustice against the oppressed community. Ramabai Ambedkar is one of those women who silently stood resolute in rendering support to Dr Ambedkar, which was her biggest strength. She was a symbol of humility, resilience, and compassion. There is so much to learn from Ramabai Ambedkar, which the viewers will witness in the upcoming episodes.
Before you started with Ek Mahanayak, Dr B.R. Ambedkar, how much did you know about Babasaheb’s life and times? What is that one learning from him you have implemented or follow in your life?
Upon signing for the show, I have been given a detailed brief by the production team and the eminent researcher on the show, Hari Narke Sir. We have read about Dr Ambedkar and know about his achievements. He was the chief architect of the Indian constitution. But we have limited information on his childhood journey and struggles. However, being a part of the show that depicts his life story will help me discover a lot about him and the revolution he brought into the community and society.
One learning that has inspired me personally from Dr Ambedkar’s journey is the importance of education. Dr Ambedkar was one of the most well-read and most educated leaders. The learning I take from him is how he used his education to transform his life and others.
Have you started shooting? How has been your experience so far?
Yes, we have started shooting, and the experience so far has been nothing but rewarding. Playing such a significant character has always been my dream. So, I would say that I am living my dream through this show. The entire team of the show is very warm and welcoming. I hit it off with the cast instantly. I look forward to achieving many milestones and making memories with my new on-set family.
Watch Narayani Mahesh Varne as Ramabai starting July 20thin &TV’s Ek Mahanayak Dr B.R. Ambedkar every Monday to Friday at 8.30 pm!
