“I am grateful that my characters allow people to learn more about Punjabi culture” says Ikk Kudi Punjab Di’s lead actor Avinesh Rekhi

Zee TV's recently launched fiction offering, "Ikk Kudi Punjab Di" is a high-octane drama that has begun to captivate audiences with its powerful storyline and well-written characters.

By Bollyy 08 Dec 2023 in Latest News

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Avinesh Rekhi a.k.a Ranjha from Zee TV's Ikk Kudi Punjab Di

Zee TV's recently launched fiction offering, "Ikk Kudi Punjab Di" is a high-octane drama that has begun to captivate audiences with its powerful storyline and well-written characters. Based in Punjab, the show is a gripping narrative of strength and resilience. Popular actor Avinesh Rekhi is essaying the role of Ranjha, who is an orphan raised in a Gurudwara. Ranjha is deeply devoted to Heer (Tanisha Mehta) as she is his childhood friend, and her every wish is his command. He is determined to shield her from any harm that may come her way.

Q. Have you made any specific preparations for your character Ranjha a.k.a Ranjeet?

A. Being a Punjabi myself, embodying a Punjabi character on-screen came naturally to me. Given my familiarity with the dialect and pronunciations, slipping into the character was a seamless process. Considering Ranjha's upbringing as an orphan in a Gurudwara, I am infusing a certain restrained, respectful, strong and silent kind of body language and mannerisms to authentically portray the character. I am committed to doing justice to this role and hope to receive the same love and support from the audience as I have in the past.

Q. You visited Amritsar and Chandigarh for outdoor shoots, tell us about your experience of shooting in the city.

A. Amritsar and Chandigarh hold a special place in my heart. Each visit to these places brings immense joy to my heart. During my time shooting for the show, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. From engaging with the media to indulging in shopping and relishing local delicacies while exploring the city, every moment was memorable. Along with my crew members and Tanisha, we also took the opportunity to explore nearby locations and connect with the local crowd after our shoot. I feel incredibly fortunate to have visited the Golden Temple before filming my first scene for the show; it all seemed serendipitous!

Q. After working with the cast of Ikk Kudi Punjab Di for a while, how would you describe your bond with everyone, particularly Tanisha?

A. Tanisha and I immediately connected on the very first day, and it wasn't just with her but also with all our fellow co-stars. The enthusiasm and joy we shared marked the beginning of this exciting new journey. Being around people with the same energy and good vibes always makes your bonds stronger with them. Additionally, I have also been helping Tanisha with a little Punjabi accent on the set, so we spend a lot of time reading our lines and preparing for our scenes to portray the best on-screen chemistry between Heer and Ranjha.

Q. What do you want audiences to pick as a message from this show?

A. Every woman, at some stage of her life or the other, goes through trying circumstances that she must learn to navigate and overcome. Heer’s story is one of drawing from one’s inner strength and bouncing back, and my character Ranjha will be the rock-solid friend standing by her side and helping Heer sail through the obstacles that come her way. Such narratives of resilience have the ability to inspire anyone going through trials and tribulations and give them the strength to carry on. The audience will connect with the bond between Heer and Ranjha. Rather than your typical boy meets girl romance, it begins as a pure childhood friendship with tremendous care and concern that Ranjha has for Heer right since they were little. The story will also give viewers hope that there’s always a ray of light at the end of the tunnel and if you stand up for yourself and assert your truth, there’s no holding you back!

Q. This is the second time you are playing the role of a Punjabi man wearing a Turban, how does it feel?

A. I love portraying a Punjabi character on-screen, as it allows me to wear a turban, which I consider to be a true blessing. I am grateful that my characters allow people to learn more about Punjabi culture. In fact, for Ikk Kudi Punjab Di, we have shot many scenes in the beautiful cities- Chandigarh and Amritsar, this not only made me feel more connected to my roots but also allowed me to experience the rich heritage of our land.

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