Avinash Lohana (MUMBAI MIRROR; December 13, 2018)

After ruling the small screen as Archana in Ekta Kapoor’s long-running tele-soap Pavitra Rishta, Ankita Lokhande will make her Bollywood debut as Jhalkaribai in Manikarnika - The Queen of Jhansi which features Kangana Ranaut in the titular role. A woman solider in Rani Laxmibai’s army, Jhalkaribai rose to the position of an advisor to the Queen and, at the peak of their battle with the British, disguised herself as her to hoodwink the enemy.

“I’d read about Rani Lakshmibai in history textbooks, but when I was offered the role of Jhalkaribai, I realised I knew nothing about her. I was excited by Krish’s (director) narration, she was a Dalit hero and is still being worshipped by them. In fact, there are many statues of her in Madhya Pradesh. So, when I got an opportunity to portray someone not many know about, I was kicked about it,” says the actress. She trained in horse-riding and sword fighting for 30-35 days, the latter under guidance of Hollywood action director, Nick Powell. Ankita admits that the first time she sat on a horse, she was terrified and insisted on having someone around her to ensure everything goes well. “Now, I am good at it thought I am still apprehensive,” she admits with a smile.

Sword-fighting was easier as being a dancer she was familiar with the stances. “I remember initially Nick would laugh at me, telling me it was not about dancing but fighting and I had to perform. One day, he organised a competition between his trainers and some of the actors. I never expected to win and was surprised when he announced that I was the best of them all. That really boosted my confidence,” she reminisces.

Ankita is all praise for her co-star Kangana who like her believes that everyone on the set should be happy and positive and bond like a family. “We would often discuss our looks and hair which are very similar, along with skin care. I had a great time shooting with her,” the debutante signs off.