Actor Naman Shaw who is playing Adit’s character in the Mangal Lakshmi show talks about his character, trp pressure and more.
1. With the show topping the charts, what’s the feeling like, and do you think the gray character worked in your favor?
Our show is topping the charts in the first month itself. It has been a great feeling, and everyone on the team is elated. The crew was very excited because this is what we work for. We want numbers; it keeps us motivated just to know that people are watching the show and they are appreciating it. Also, it’s the slot leader at 9 p.m. across all channels.
Definitely, the gray character has worked; I think Adit’s character is the one that is creating the drama in the show. Every time Adit comes on screen, people are anticipating that something is going to happen, and it keeps them hooked.
- Any inhibitions before you took this on?
No inhibitions; in fact, I was waiting for a character like this because I have only done good boy roles. People never thought of me portraying a gray character; I was waiting for a show that would change the perception of the audience towards me.
- Does shooting a daily allow you any me time at all? Does it not get to you after a point?
Yes, the daily show is very hectic, especially if it’s seven days a week telecast, but luckily our show has two different families and every character is important, so the work is divided and we are getting a little bit of my time, and for me, it’s a comeback. I just want to concentrate on my work. I have rested enough, so yes, it is a little hectic, but I am enjoying it!
- Any preps for this role considering it’s the total opposite of you?
Yes, we did prep before the show started. We had our workshop with the director, creative team, myself, and Deepika. It really helped us to understand the nuances of the character.
- Is there constant pressure when the show reaches the top to go out of your way to maintain those numbers?
Well, the expectation for Mangal Lakshmi was very high from day one; we all believed in the show, and with numbers coming in, it has strengthened our belief. There’s no pressure as such, because we know this show will do really well.
6. How has your wife, Neha, reacted to your character in the show?
She has never seen me in this avatar in real life. She is loving it and always being my honest critic 😊