In Badi Devrani, actor Megha Chakraborthy plays the character of Reeti who is older than her husband. She says she likes the transformation from a Bengali look to a Marwari one.
What are your thoughts on playing a woman older than her husband in Badi Devrani?
The story involves the dynamics between two families over a marriage of a girl who is five years older than the boy. According to me, the concept of the show is unique and realistic. I personally liked the concept. I love my role.
Is Mudit Nayar (who plays your husband) younger to you in real life?
No, he is older than me in real life. I must say he is so lucky that he looks so much younger. I told him to give me some tips (laughs).
Do you think it is difficult for a married couple when the wife is elder to the husband?
If there is love and understanding between husband and wife then there is no space for age difference. What matters is your attitude towards your relationship, how you solve your problems and help each other in different situations. Age difference can’t be a big issue in a relationship when the wife is older than the husband.
How much do you connect with your character of Reeti?
Reeti is extremely composed and mature. She is an MBA graduate and very modern in her thinking process despite being well rooted to her family traditions. She always stands for the right thing and speaks out for justice. That is what I like about the character. Sometimes, she is naughty and I can connect with the character then.
Do you think age is just a number for people who fall in love? Does age play a major role in relationships?
Yes of course. For those who fall in love, age difference doesn’t matter. According to me, love has no boundaries and limits. In the 21st century, age difference is not a big issue at all. It becomes an issue in certain situations, especially when two traditional families lock horns. Badi Devrani shows the audience that nothing eventually matters when love prevails.
Earlier you were rejected for the show as you seemed too western. What changed?
Yes, that is true. But I wanted to play the role because I wished to work in ShashiSumeet Productions as I had heard about them a lot. They did another look test, giving me the Marwari bahu look. I passed the test. I’m very lucky that I got selected to work with ShashiSumeet Production.
What was it like wearing the Marwari sari for the show?
I love my new Marwari look. As I’m a Bengali girl, this is like a transformation. I’m enjoying my journey from the ‘City of Joy’ to the’ City of Dreams’.
Any problems with the language?
Initially, the problem was my accent. Since I’m from Kolkata, I didn’t speak Hindi perfectly. But Shashi Mittal ma’am made me very comfortable. Sometimes, she taught me. Now, I’m quite confident.