Mahima Makwana is receiving praise for her performance as Preeti in ‘Musafir Cafe’, and the actor opened up about the role, reuniting with Vikrant Massey and her journey beyond television. She also addressed the preconceived notions she has faced in the industry, admitting that actors can sometimes be judged even before they get an opportunity to audition.
Mahima Makwana on connecting with Preeti’s character
Speaking to Mid Day about her character Preeti in ‘Musafir Cafe’, Mahima Makwana opened up about how the role’s emotional depth and vulnerability drew her in. “Preeti is someone who feels everything very deeply but doesn’t always express it. What I loved about her is that she’s not trying to be perfect or heroic. She’s flawed, vulnerable and constantly figuring herself out, just like most of us,” she says.Talking about how she approached the character, Mahima adds, “While playing her, I tried to understand her silences as much as her dialogues because sometimes what she doesn’t say tells you more about who she is.”Mahima Makwana on reuniting with Vikrant MasseyWorking alongside Vikrant Massey in ‘Musafir Cafe’ brought Mahima’s journey full circle in an interesting way. The two had first met years ago on the sets of ‘Balika Vadhu’, and now found themselves reuniting on screen. Speaking about coming together again, Mahima says, “It’s always nice when your paths cross again with people you’ve admired. Vikrant has evolved so beautifully over the years, and it was lovely sharing screen space with him again. There’s a certain comfort because you’ve seen each other’s journeys from different phases. It’s a reminder that life comes full circle in unexpected ways.”Mahima Makwana on facing preconceived notions post televisionShe acknowledges that stepping away from her TV image hasn’t been free of preconceived notions along the way. “I won’t say people openly tell you that’s the reason, but yes, there are preconceived notions. Sometimes you’re judged even before you audition because people already have an image of you,” she says. That said, rather than trying to counter such perceptions directly, she’s chosen to let her performances speak for themselves. “Every project I’ve done after television has been a conscious attempt to challenge myself. It may have taken time, but I believe good work eventually changes perception,” she adds.
Mahima Makwana on her experience working in ‘Antim’
Recalling her time on ‘Antim’, Mahima Makwana says the film gave her a front-row seat to watch actors she had long admired at work. “Antim was a very special experience because I got to observe people I’ve looked up to for years. Salman sir has this incredible ability to make everyone around him feel comfortable. Even with such a massive presence, he’s very warm and approachable,” she recalls. On what she picked up from the experience, she adds, “Watching him work taught me that experience brings a certain calmness. That’s something I’ve carried with me.”
About ‘Musafir Cafe’
‘Musafir Cafe’ featured Vikrant Massey, Vedika Pinto, and Mahima Makwana in lead roles. The show was written and created by Sharanya Rajgopal, helmed by Ruchir Arun, and drew its characters from a novel penned by Divya Prakash Dubey.
