Rehearsing Valour

She’s played one of the most iconic characters on Indian television. And now,as Zee TV’s Jhansi Ki Rani inches towards its final climax,Kratika Sengar,the lead protagonist,looks back in awe at all the time spent in learning new things everyday. “From horse-riding and swordsmanship to a queen’s body language and diction,I had to go through an entire rigmarole of learning everything,” says Senger. Shot in Karjat,in Maharashtra,Senger had to drive through a hilly terrain and winding roads,and brace herself for a new adventure everyday,and in the process,she adds,she made personal discoveries too. “I realised that I’m a passionate person,and like to live life on my own terms and do only those things that I have full conviction in,” she says.

Senger agrees that it was a huge responsibility to play Rani Laxmibai — a tall lady — ‘tall’ in character and personality. “I am still in awe of her,” she says. Having played Laxmibai’s role for over a year now,Senger even feels a connect. “I can’t possibly do justice to such a personality,a woman of strength,courage and conviction. But I do relate to one thing — she was in the habit of listening to everyone’s perspective and finally doing exactly what she thought was right. I find this quality in myself too,” she says.

Shooting for days together meant a complete cut-off from personal and social life. Senger had to miss family weddings and was left with no quality time with friends. “But when I go out,people instantly recognise me and look up to me as if I really am Rani Laxmibai. It all feels completely worth it,” she says. As the show is reaching its end on June 19,Senger is experiencing mixed emotions. “I will miss the character for sure. But if one door closes,another one opens,”

says Senger.