Dancing to the success

Shubhangi Atre Poorey became a household name after her role as Kasturi in the TV series ‘Kasturi’, and she has been hogging the limelight for her role Devsena, who is a devadasi, in 'Adhuri Kahaani Humari'

How are you enjoying the success of ‘Adhuri Kahaani Humari’?

I’m thoroughly enjoying it. I was waiting for something substantial to come my way. I’m like the character of Devsena because she is a “devdasi” and a classical dancer.

I’ve learnt Kathak and I’m a national winner in Kathak. So, it is a very big opportunity for me to portray the role of a dancer. And it is a very powerful role.

What excited you to accept the role?

I always wanted to experiment and challenge myself. I did negative, comedy, love story and family drama too. I should try divergent genres so that I can see myself as a complete actor. Audience should not feel that I always do the same banal roles.

What homework did you have to do for the role?

I did not get time to do any homework. As an actor I always go like a blank paper on set. My director can draw anything on that blank paper and I make sure to put some inputs in it and make it better.

Television still remembers you as “Kasturi”. How did you grab that role?

I was in Pune, post my pregnancy and I was shooting for a shampoo commercial ad. My photographer said, “Why don’t you try working for television and films?” I said I don’t know how to get in. At that time Balaji Telefilms were auditioning for a few roles. I gave audition and I was 75kg at that time. So I got call from Balaji saying, lose some weight and we will cast you. I did all the things possible to lose weight. I got selected in ‘Kausauti Zindagii Kay’ as Palchin. Ekta liked me and offered the role of “Kasturi” and rest is history.

From ‘Kasauti Zindagii Kay’ to ‘Adhuri Kahani Hamari’, how did you grow as an actor?

I don’t judge myself. But, I learnt a lot. At the same time I’ve to learn much more. I didn’t know any technicalities regarding acting. So, for me every day is a new day. I think when you feel you’ve learnt everything, then that day your growth as an actor will stop.

By:Abhyudaya Karamchetu