Farzi actor Raashii Khanna on beating Shah Rukh Khan on the IMDb list of most popular celebs: ‘I thought it was a hoax’

The actor further spoke about her journey to becoming Megha in Farzi. Sharing that she had spoken to casting director Mukesh Chhabra after Madras Cafe and how he should come to her with something ‘really substantial’. Raashii said, “I was already doing well in the south and this is why I wanted something right. He called me saying how he has a lead role in a Raj and DK series for me. It was a no-brainer and I didn’t even want to read the script then. It was Covid times so we had a zoom meeting and it just clicked. I was surprised how it happened so easily, and I am glad that it did. As an actor, being part of a Raj and DK series was a big thing.”

Talking about her character, Raashii shared how she could relate to Megha in many ways. While her parents don’t ask her, a lot of relatives do question her when she plans to get married, just like Megha’s mother in the show. “A lot of women my age face it so I could see the connection. Also, she is hard-working, pure at heart, and doesn’t let anyone phase her out. I could relate to all of that except that she is a go-getter. I am someone who believes that if it’s meant to be, it will. I don’t chase things, to the level that she overpowers authority. But I was really inspired by her ambition and courage.”

Not many know that Raashii Khanna wanted to be an IAS officer while growing up. She shared how playing Megha helped her tap on the ‘Indianness’ in her and play a government officer. Referring to the show further, the actor revealed that once they had a fake bundle of notes in her home. “My father did report it but there are many who don’t, feeling that the authorities will take back the money. However, thanks to Farzi, a lot of awareness has been created. Culprits have also become wary of printing fake notes also,” she added with a laugh.

On a final note, we discussed with Raashii about her beating Shah Rukh Khan on the IMDb list recently. Replying with childlike glee, the actor said that she is not on social media and thus didn’t know about it and it was Raj who informed her. “As soon as he told me, I ran to another room and called my father. He didn’t understand what the list was but I told him how SRK sir is on the second spot. He too was shocked. Honestly, I thought it was a hoax but later, I did realise it was just a phase. Like he is King Khan and no one can beat him. It was the popularity of the show and people liked my character. But I am really grateful and the child in me was truly excited. It was some milestone, to be honest.”

As a young actor, Raashii Khanna added that she doesn’t know yet how seriously one should take these lists and awards. “I feel everything is a phase and it will only count if you continue for long. All of this will come and go but one has to establish themselves. I really believe that surviving is far more difficult than achieving these milestones. It will be 10 years for me as an actor and I want my career to be long-term. These short-term successes do give you a boost and create a good will in the industry but the focus is always on the bigger goals.

On the work front, Raashii Khanna next has Yodha with Sidharth Malhotra lined up.