Popular actress Karuna Pandey who essays the titular role of Pushpa in the Sony SAB show Pushpa Impossible, produced by Hats Off Productions, will see a new phase in her portrayal on the show. In addition to playing Pushpa, Karuna is now entrusted with the responsibility of playing the strikingly opposite character of Basanti other than Pushpa. As we know, Basanti, the lookalike of Pushpa has been brought in to create drama.
Karuna who is confident of pulling it off well in the robe of Basanti talks about playing both the characters.
Talking about Basanti, Karuna states, “Basanti looks like Pushpa and lives in a different part of the country but has a contrasting personality when compared to Pushpa. Unlike Pushpa, Basanti doesn’t share the same morals because of the difficult life she has led. She’s tough, self-reliant, acts without hesitation, and is shaped by the harshness of the world. Though she has her struggles, Basanti remains lively and entertaining, strong enough to bend but never break. Playing her has been equally challenging and interesting.”
When asked about the stark character differences between Pushpa and Basanti, Karuna states, “As Karuna, I feel I carry elements of both Pushpa and Basanti within me, which is why I believe this role was meant for me. I believe I have a mix of masculine and feminine energy, and it is all about balancing both sides. Basanti is rough and tough, and so sometimes, I tap into that side of myself. Those qualities exist in me, and they help me bring authenticity to the role I play.”
Karuna goes on to explain to us how she understood the personality traits of Basanti. “Even though she is more rough and tough, Basanti is also vibrant, outspoken, and full of energy. So I had to bring that liveliness into every scene. I also worked on her speech patterns, tone, and expressions to make sure her eccentricities felt natural. Now, Basanti has become a part of me, and I can easily switch into her playful, spirited mode.”
On the process of transforming from one character and getting into the skin of the other, Karuna avers, “As an actor, I have been doing it for many years. We practice switching between characters so much that it becomes second nature. Every character makes you feel different, and when you fully step into one role, you start feeling like that person. Then, when you play another character, you have to switch to another personality. It’s just part of the process. I’m not saying it’s easy, but you get used to it over time and it comes with experience. Getting to portray a different character within the same show is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for me.”
Talking about the new twist that will arise in the show, Karuna explains, “Basanti is going to bring a twist to the current track as a look-alike of Pushpa. This will lead to plenty of entertaining situations, misunderstandings, and confusion. Since she resembles Pushpa and will slowly get into her house too, many new twists are going to happen, and the situation will become quite tricky. I can’t reveal too much right now, but yes, it’s going to be exciting!”
