MUMBAI: Sony Entertainment Television's periodic drama ‘Punyashlok Ahilyabai’ brings forth to the viewers, one of the most iconic and powerful stories of none other than the legendary Ahilyabai Holkar. The tale revolves around the journey of Ahilyabai Holkar, who challenged the 18th century societal norms banishing the boundaries and thereby paving way for a new era of women empowerment. Having kept the viewers glued to their screens for the better part of the year now, the show recently took a time-leap of seven years that marked the onset of the, ‘Yuva Adhyay.’ 

To play the grown-up character of Ahilya’s husband, Khanderao Holkar, actor Gaurav Amlani has been roped in. Known for exhibiting an effortless charm on screen and having done exemplary work in not only television and film industry but also as a theatre artist, Gaurav was considered a befitting choice for the role. 
 
On essaying such a pivotal role, Gaurav Amlani says, “It is a great opportunity for me to be playing the role of Khanderao Holkar. I have been a fan of the show myself so my excitement knows no bounds. Sharing the screen with such talented actors encourages me to strive to deliver my best. Ahilyabai has been an inspiration to many and playing a part in telling her story is going to be challenging yet exciting. I look forward to this enthralling experience. Moreover, I am personally fond of period dramas and historic shows as they present such dynamic stories and have so much to offer to the audience.” 

Talking about child artists Aditi Jaltare and Krish Chauhan who portrayed the roles of Ahilyabai and Khanderao respectively Gaurav Amlani goes on to say, "Both Aditi and Krish have done a fabulous job portraying the roles of Ahilyabai and Khanderao in the show. They have left big shoes for us to fill. It will be a challenging task as the audience gets attached to the actors. I hope both Aetashaa and I strike a chord with the audience and win their appreciation.”

The current track of the show throws light on a critical societal matter that is relevant even today - ‘harassment’.  When a well reputed man who is also a part of Ahilya’s extended family is accused of harassing women in the village, Ahilya takes a stand and decides to punish him befittingly. But as a result, she is met with severe opposition in the darbaar, especially by her own trusted people. Amidst complaints of Ahilya being unfit to administer properly, Malhar returns and wholeheartedly supports Ahilya’s decision.

Gear up to witness Gaurav Amlani’s entry as Khanderao Holkar, coming soon in Punyashlok Ahilyabai, every Mon-Fri at 7:30pm only on Sony Entertainment Television