From television to films and back

The popular adage “Work hard in silence, let your success make noise” suits television actor, Mugdha Chaphekar, who is garnering accolades for her role in the award-winning film, ‘The Silence’. She speaks about her transition from TV to silver screen, even as she makes a decisionnot to restrict herself to one particular medium.

Excerpts:

You have literally grown up in TV industry. How does it feel to be here since 20 years?

It feels really good. Honestly, many people try to get into this industry but for me it was stroke of luck. I can say I have much experience in this industry from rest of the actors. I started acting when I was 5, so people look at me and say “Over 20 years in this industry!” When they say this it feels extremely strange.

How did you grab the role in the historical serial, ‘Dharti Ka Veer Yodha Prithviraj Chauhan’?

Everything was done at the last minute. I heard the production house is searching for the heroine and could not get any person for the role. So I went for the audition in the evening and from next morning I started shooting. I was the last person they auditioned.

Tell us about your role as Shera in ‘Dharam-Veer’.

Even today when people ask me what is your challenging role? I say it is Shera from ‘Dharam-Veer’. That character is exactly contrary to what I’m as a person. Everything about Shera intrigued me and that is how I started the journey.

What attracted you to the role of Arushi in ‘Satrangi Sasural’’?

The character is completely like me. Arushi is very responsible girl. You can find her in every girl. I wanted to play today’s girl and this character made it possible.

How did the film, ‘The Silence’ happen?

Right now, I’m getting appreciation from everyone and the movie is getting good acclaims internationally. I saw the feature for first time at “MAMI” as I couldn’t get the chance to see it before. After the screening I sat in silence for a long time, I forgot that I was in the movie. I felt strong connection with the character. The film is helmed by Gajendra Ahire, who won many awards in Germany and internationally. I’m fortunate to work with him in my debut.

Tell us about your character in film?

The film is about a girl and one incident in her life. I think every single guy and girl should watch it. Especially men should watch it according to me. Although I can’t blab a lot about the story and character but I would say it is based on a true story and it portrayed well and bagging accolades in film festivals.