Shirina gets her inspiration from Urmila for Zee TV's Ek Mutthi Aasman

Bollywood actors are known to prepare for their characters extensively but even our television stars leave no stone unturned when it comes to preparing for their roles and getting into skin of their character. Such was the case with actor Shirina Singh, who plays Pakhi in Zee TV’s popular show Ek Mutthi Aasman (DJs A Creative Unit). In an interesting upcoming track, her character will turn into a violent obsessive lover and attempt to win the affections of her love Raghav Singhania (Ashish Chowdhry). To understand the nuances of this complex character, Shirina took references from actress Urmila Matondkar, who had nailed the personality of an obsessive lover in her critically acclaimed movie-Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya. Viewers will be surprised to see Pakhi in this all-new avatar with shades of grey; Till now, she has been shown as an extremely sweet, positive girl who despite coming from a rich family, is very down to earth and loving person but clearly, her emotions for Raghav and his non-reciprocation have brought out the worst in her. In the show, Raghav had married Pakhi as revenge for all the injustice her parents had done to his family. Despite marrying Pakhi, Raghav continues to love Kalpana (Rachna Parulkar) and this has brought out the worst streak of jealousy in Pakhi. Her unrequited love for Raghav will soon turn her into an obsessive, violent lover. Sharing her excitement on the new change in her character Shirina says “When I was told that my character Pakhi will turn into a psychotic lover, the first name which hit my mind was that of Urmila’s convincing portrayal of Ria in Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya. Playing an obsessive lover is not that easy, I had to understand the complexities of the character as to what a person goes through when his love in not reciprocated in the positive manner so that I don’t end up overdoing the part. I tried to take a few cues from Urmila’s character to understand the role better but at the same time I added my own bit and the feedback from the creative team of the show has been positive so far. It was quite challenging for me as an actor and I am satisfied that I have put in my best efforts. I am eagerly awaiting the audience’s reaction; hope they like it” Good work Shirina!