Young and talented actress Aarohi Patel made her TV debut with Zee TV’s show Kashibai Bajirao Ballal. She is seen playing the lead role of young Kashibai in the show. The show showcases the story of the great Maratha Empire, its pride and valor, all narrated from the lens of Kashibai.
In conversation with IWMBuzz.com, Aarohi spoke about her new show, preparation, and more.
How did you bag this show?
I had auditioned for the role and I thought I didn’t make it … but they called me after sometime and we did 3 or 4 look tests and then I was finalized.
Tell us about your character in the show?
I am playing the role of young Kashibai, who is the daughter of a rich Sahukaar, Mahad Ji Joshi. She is a simple girl who is very helpful to everyone around her. While she is quite pampered, she also has a very sharp mind. While I have heard and read a lot about Kashibai, there was so much more that I learned only through the show. I have also watched Bajirao Mastani and loved Priyanka Chopra’s performance in the film as Kashi so I was thrilled when I realized I was going to play the part.
How are you preparing for the show?
The creative team spends a lot of time with me, takes me through the historical and cultural aspects of the Maratha empire and Kashibai’s journey. Before we begin shooting daily, I sit with the director and the whole team shows me the typical mannerisms and gestures that will make my performance feel more real and natural. I learnt Marathi and Sanskrit for my role as Kashibai too and I got to learn more about their culture. I also learnt horse riding. I took the right training and enjoyed the whole process while shooting for these crucial sequences. I worked extremely hard and in 4 days, I learnt at least the basics of horse riding. My trainer taught me everything really well and I am grateful to the whole team for their support.
How are you juggling between studies and shoot?
My school authorities have been extremely supportive and with the pandemic, our classes are all online. So, I don’t miss my main subjects. I take my online classes in the morning and shoot for the rest of the day.
How are you staying safe during the current times?
The entire crew is vaccinated, and we are shooting in a bio bubble, with minimal access to any outsiders. We also keep sanitizing ourselves and wear masks whenever we are not shooting.