‘I am going to miss my character Bhimabai a lot as she became an integral part of my life in many ways’ confesses Neha Joshi
Neha Joshi is a popular and talented Marathi film actress who has played interesting roles across entertainment fields. She has regaled audiences through her strong characters in films, serials and plays too. As Bhimabai’s role comes to its natural end, Neha Joshi who portrays Bhimabai in &TV’s Ek
Throughout Babasaheb’s life, Bhimabai was his biggest inspiration. She was instrumental in inculcating the right values and teachings in him. These learnings and teachings shaped his future, making him the greatest leaders of our times. Bhimabai stood as a strong pillar to Babasaheb and motivated him to study hard and use his education to transform his life, serve his country and emancipate people from his community. She always taught him to stand up for what is right, no matter what.
Despite being so young, Aayudh Bhanushali never fails to surprise us with his acting talent. He is an extremely dedicated and hardworking co-star. He is so warm and welcoming that I remember the first time I met him during our shoot in Kolhapur, we instantly clicked and formed a close bond. We share an incredible bond, he is the apple of my eye, and I will surely miss working with him.
Bhimabai and Ramji’s relationship in that era was ahead of its time. They stood by each other through the most difficult and challenging times, and through thick and thin. I have worked with Jagannath Ji before, and he is a great actor. We have always shared tremendous respect for each other.
I was shortlisted after multiple rounds of auditions. I was ecstatic to work on a show of such stature. &TV’s EkMahanayak Dr B.R. Ambedkar is a never-told-before life story in the Hindi GEC space, of an extraordinary personality and his immense contribution to the Indian society.
Playing a character that already holds a reference and is known to many people is challenging, but it also brings many learnings. The real challenge is to ensure that you do justice to such a significant role. The character of Bhimabai is like a responsibility that I intended to take up and give my best. In my opinion, Bhimabai’s strength was her ‘family’, which kept her going for so many years. She is an exceptional mother, a devoted wife, and a doting sister-in-law.
It is tough to pinpoint one single moment; the entire journey has been quite remarkable. We are like one big family. A lot of people on sets call me ‘Aai’ off-screen as well. The entire cast and crew have always been supportive. These are bonds that we have created are for life, and they are incredibly close to me.
The first scene that we shot in Kolhapur was Babasaheb’s birth, and it was a very emotional scene to enact. I had a myriad of emotions while shooting that particular scene, and it came out beautifully. The last scene we shot was of Bhimbai’s death, and yet again it was a very emotional moment, that left everyone teary-eyed. I did say my goodbyes to everyone after the pack-up with a promise to stay in touch.
As students, we have always read about Babasaheb, but being a part of his journey through this show has been a great learning experience. There is not one but many facets of Babasaheb’s life that I have learned through this show and will always cherish.
I am going to miss my character Bhimabai a lot! It was not just about portraying a role, but, as the show progressed, she became an integral part of my life in many ways. What makes this role unique is the character’s strength and her loving and caring persona. I will miss the cast and most importantly, Bhimrao (Aayudh Bhanushali), Ramji (Jagannath Nivangune), Meeraba
Well, I have not yet decided the next steps. But for now, I will be taking a short break and focus on myself for the time being. I am open to doing some good projects.