Latest news with #MohakMatkar
Time of India
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Saru aka Mohak Matkar sparks a stirring conversation on Ragging: It's a reality many students silently suffer
TV's latest fiction offering, Saru, has touched a chord with audiences across the country with its heartwarming tale of a village girl who dares to dream big. As Saru (essayed by Mohak Matkar) steps out of the comforts of her home in Khares, Rajasthan, to pursue higher education in Mumbai, her story takes a hard-hitting turn in the coming episodes when she becomes the target of ragging in her new college. What starts as subtle hostility soon escalates into public humiliation when her classmate Anika (Anushka Merchande) deliberately tears her blouse, prompting students to record the incident on their phones and turning it into a spectacle of humiliation. The experience pushes Saru into a moment of intense shame and self-doubt. But instead of breaking down or retaliating, Saru finds strength in her silence and courage in the support of her professor, Ved (Shagun Pandey), who stands by her like a pillar. For actor Mohak Matkar, portraying Saru during this emotionally charged track was both challenging and personally moving. Opening up about the experience, she said: 'Ragging isn't just a fictional twist—it's a reality many students silently suffer through. Portraying Saru through this track was emotionally tough, but it made me reflect on how vulnerable students can feel when they're away from home, trying to find their footing in a new world. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like A perfect start needs the perfect ride – Shine 125! Honda Learn More Undo What struck me most is Saru's quiet resilience. She doesn't lash out in anger; she just holds on to her dignity with the help of Professor Ved.' She adds, 'No dream should be broken because of someone else's cruelty. I truly hope that this storyline not only sparks a conversation against ragging and bullying but also encourages students to seek support and reminds teachers to stay alert and compassionate. Even one voice speaking up—or one teacher standing by a student—can make all the difference.' With this poignant narrative turn, Saru highlights the pressing issue of ragging and the power of empathy, courage, and mentorship in a student's life. As the show continues to explore Saru's journey in the big city, viewers will be left wondering—will she rise above the humiliation and reclaim her dreams, or will Anika succeed in derailing her path?
Time of India
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Pankit Thakker recalls filming for Saru in Rajasthan; says ‘The scenic beauty added a unique charm to our scenes'
Television actor Pankit Thakker , currently seen as Chandru in the newly launched show Saru, opened up about his enriching experience shooting in Rajasthan. The show, which premiered on May 12, 2025, also stars Mohak Matkar , Anushka Merchande, and Shagun Pandey in pivotal roles. Reflecting on the scenic backdrop, Pankit shared, 'Our time filming in Rajasthan was truly unforgettable. The scenic beauty added a unique charm to our scenes, and I'm grateful to have been a part of it. But what made it even more special were the car rides back to the hotel, where we'd blast our favorite songs and have epic sing-alongs. I remember we'd even tell our driver to wait a minute longer just because our jam was playing! Moments like those made the whole experience feel so special. ' Beyond the shoot, it was the off-camera bonding that left a lasting impact on the actor. 'The entire cast would come together for dinner sessions, which helped us to know each other and connect well. We are now like a family and share a really good bond. We'd share stories, laughter, and impromptu comedy sessions would erupt, making those moments pure joy,' he said. Pankit also praised the show's young lead, Mohak Matkar, who plays Saru, his daughter on screen. 'Mohak is a breath of fresh air – warm, humble, and talented. Her dedication is inspiring and her passion is contagious. As we bonded over meals and shared our journeys, we quickly went from co-stars to a close-knit family,' he added. Known for his popular roles in Dill Mill Gayye, Kabhi Sautan Kabhi Saheli, and Special Squad, Pankit continues to bring warmth and depth to his characters, both on and off screen.
Time of India
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Mohak Matkar spent days in a Rajasthan village to work on her dialect and perfect her role for Saru; says 'I made a conscious effort to speak to as many locals as possible'
TV's latest fiction show Saru, introduces viewers to the inspiring journey of a determined young woman from Khares village in Rajasthan, as she battles societal constraints to pursue her dreams of higher education . Portraying the lead role is debutante Mohak Matkar , who has gone the extra mile to lend authenticity to her character, not just through performance, but by immersing herself in the culture, speech, and soul of the region. To portray Saru convincingly with integrity and truth, Mohak undertook rigorous dialect training , working closely with a coach to grasp the nuances of Rajasthani speech, including tone, rhythm, and pronunciation. But her preparation extended far beyond the script. During the on-location shoot in Rajasthan, she actively engaged with local women and schoolgirls, closely observing their mannerisms, expressions, and conversations. This immersive experience offered her a deeper understanding of how people across ages and genders communicate, helping her internalize the language as a living, emotional expression rather than just dialogue. Mohak Matkar said, 'While preparing for my role as Saru, I made a conscious effort to speak to as many locals as possible during the shoot in Rajasthan. Coming from a city background, this was an entirely new experience for me, and it was fascinating to observe how the dialect varies. When I first started working with my dialect coach, I used to get confused; however, now I have started picking it up well. I also met a group of schoolgirls who giggled while correcting my pronunciation—but they did it with such warmth, it made me feel like I was part of their world. These small yet powerful experiences helped me embody the character more truthfully and I am looking forward to sharing it with the audiences!' With her grounded performance and honest preparation, Mohak is all set to win hearts as Saru as she embarks on her empowering journey.
Time of India
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Anushka Merchande on playing the antagonist in Saru, says 'It's rare to come across a script that feels powerful'
In India, countless dreamers from small towns aspire for a brighter future. While education, sports, and the arts open doors to these dreams, the journey to the big city often brings unforeseen challenges that test resilience. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now The channel known for its legacy of narrating inspiring and relatable stories, is all set to present such a story with its latest show - Saru—a compelling narrative about a young girl who dares to dream beyond her small-town limits. 's world is deeply rooted in her village, Kharas in Rajasthan, a place she cherishes. But with no means to pursue higher education there, she is left with no choice but to step away from everything familiar and chase her aspirations in the city while battling her biggest obstacle: convincing her mother, who is firmly opposed to letting her go. After the introduction of Mohak Matkar in the lead role, the show now welcomes the dynamic and talented , who steps into the world of Saru as Anika—a rich, stylish, arrogant in approach, and self-absorbed young woman who will bring an unmistakable edge to the narrative. Anika enjoys being the centre of attention and has a strong dislike for Saru. She leaves no stone unturned in her attempts to pull Saru down. Her presence will bring in sharp conflict and unpredictability, making her a significant antagonist catalyst in the unfolding drama. Sharing her enthusiasm, Anushka Merchande said, 'I'm incredibly excited and grateful to be part of the upcoming show Saru. What drew me instantly to this show was its grounded storytelling and how honestly it captures the drive of young women who simply want a better future for themselves—especially through education. It's rare to come across a script that feels powerful. Anika, the character I will portray is bold, image-conscious, emotionally volatile, and driven by her own need to always come out on top. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now She adds disruption and unpredictability to Saru's journey, becoming a pivotal part of the drama.' She further added, 'What excites me the most is the opportunity to push my limits with this role. Anika constantly challenges me—not just emotionally, but also in how I understand her complexities and shifting motivations. I truly believe Saru will touch hearts and start conversations, and I'm proud to be part of a show that champions ambitions and the courage to dream.' As Saru works towards her goals, the audience will watch Anika adding hurdles in her way and scheming against her, to make sure Anika is the centre of attention. Will Anika succeed in her plans to sabotage Saru and come in the way of her dreams?
