Interview: Exclusive! - “From the many roles I've played as a princess, Shehzaadi Mariam is different”, says Tunisha Sharma

Jyothi Venkatesh

Tell us more about the show

The Ali Baba and forty thieves story has enthralled us all as children. The plot is so exciting that it draws you into the story. But what Alibaba Dastaan-e-Kabul show offers is beyond the story which we have heard.

This story comes with a lot of twists, turns and surprises. This story revolves around interesting turn of events that took place in Kabul many many years back and brings alive the mystery with intense storytelling! It’s a larger than life, grand show, something that has never been witnessed before on Indian television.

It’s a complete family entertainer and a show for people of all age groups. We all are grateful for the immense love and unwavering support that we have received from the viewers since the beginning.

When did you get to know about Alibaba Dastaan-e-Kabul?

The show is a magnum opus, the team has taken a lot of time in writing every detail of the story, the details of every character, building India’s biggest television set with the help of a large crew.

After waiting for a very long time, Alibaba Dastaan-e-Kabul was finally coming into action. When I got to know about Alibaba, I was excited to know what's in it for me.

When I was offered the role of Mariam, I was extremely excited. After I read and heard the story, I knew I wanted to be Mariam and there was no looking back.

When you were conveyed that you have to play such a role on television, what were your thoughts?

I always want to play different roles. There was a time when I was doing a lot of historical shows, and to take a break I worked in Sony SAB’s Hero where I was playing the role of a cop.

I started my career by playing the role of a princess. I am again seen as a princess, but Mariam is very different. She is not a princess, she is a shehzaadi.

Tell us something about Shehzaadi Mariam?

Shehzaadi Mariam is a royal who believes that she is meant to serve the aawam before she serves her own interests. She is strong, selfless, compassionate and has a heart of gold.

In the show, the whole journey of Mariam, from Shahi Mahal to Mamuli Sadak is going to be incredible. There will be unexpected changes in Mariam’s life during this journey and the viewers will also get to see how Mariam will meet Alibaba and change his life forever.

Did you know who was playing the role of Ali?

When I first met the makers of the show, I asked them who they had selected for the role of Ali but I was told that it will be revealed soon.

Later, I saw Sheezan’s mock shoot, and I was convinced that Sheezan will be perfect as Ali. I cannot imagine anyone other than Sheezan playing the role of Ali. He is Mariam's Ali!

Would you like to reveal anything about Mariam and Ali’s bond?

Universe conspires to get Mariam and Ali together. It’s nothing but fate! Their journey will be admirable. Both of us are still exploring that bond with every passing day at the shoot.

Revealing anything right now won’t do justice to the beautiful and magical bond that viewers will get to see on screen. I can only say, when Mariam and Ali are together, they create magic!

How exciting is it to work with the huge cast on the show?

This show has a stellar star cast. Everyone here is an industry expert so of course there has been an exchange of teachings and learnings all along.

We all have bonded so well since the first day of the shooting that it feels like we have known each other since years.

I am excited to be a part of this team and seeing each one preparing and getting into their respective characters has been quite fascinating.