FUCHSIA recently set down with Sanam Jung on the sets of ‘Pyari Mona,’ here’s what she said about the character, body shaming & much more.
Pyari Mona is the latest drama on the block, airing currently on HUM TV. The story revolves around a young girl Mona who’s full of life. She is also battling body image, body shaming, and people’s judgements, all at the same time. The drama marks the return of Sanam Jung to our screens and she’s a treat to watch. Sanam has proved so far, with her onscreen performance, that she is the perfect casting option for Mona.
Recently, Team FUCHSIA visited the set of Pyari Mona and interviewed Sanam Jung and Adeel Hussain in between takes. The conversation touched on some prevalent pressure points in our society. Here are 3 things the Alvida actor had to say.
I gained 5 kgs for the role of Pyari Mona. And I’m wearing a body suit too. I am not able to go to the gym, so my face is more rounded now. I ate Biryani, Aaloo, Burger Pizza. Mona is a foodie, so I had to show it!
Sanam Jung
1. It Took Her Three Takes To say Yes To Mona
Initially, Jung had declined the role after reading the script for the first time. She recalls it took her some time and a lot of convincing from Ali Hasan, the director. Sanam revealed that she didn’t feel ready for the script initially. She read a bit and refused it at the onset. “But then, I thought that have I given anything to society through my work? That even if one person can be swerved and convinced towards body positivity and not harassing or fat shaming, then that is a gain.”
How many tries to say yes then? She reveals that it was only after she was approached about 3 times that she read the script with all her heart! Initially, Jung had declined the role after reading the script for the first time. She recalls it took her some time and a lot of convincing from Ali Hasan, the director.
‘I used to meet him (Ali) here and there. Sometimes at the gym too. We’d discuss lots of things, except the drama. But I could see the drive and passion he had for his work. One day, I took the script and started reading it wholeheartedly and with an open mind, which gave me a fresh perspective.’
Sanam Jung
This fresh view gave her a change of heart and she was ready to give it a shot.
2. Wanting To Be The Change
As Jung primarily was double-minded about the role, she discussed it with her friends and family to have a greater and more in-depth view of the issue. That’s when she realized the change she could make.
‘If I’m an actor, what’s my contribution? I’m doing projects and other things but is any of it giving back to society. Have I done anything which will benefit others and give out a social message? If there’s even one person who doesn’t harass, bully or body shame because of me, that’s what matters’
Even the slightest change in mindset; for example, body positivity will go a long way!
3. Mona Hits Close To Home
‘For the master shot, the opening of the show, I used to fan out the cards and place them in front and hide/over myself behind a chair. It’s depressing and disturbing when one has to go through this. No one has an idea. It’s really easy to judge and pass remarks.’
Sanam Jung on her struggle with body image
Sanam Jung states that Mona is relatable for her and many other girls out there, who struggle with bullying, and have body image issues. Talking about her morning show, Sanam says that people, tabloids used to comment on her weight and body, all while she was going through postpartum, and was a new mother, it took a toll on her but her family’s support got her out of it too.
Pyari Mona takes on a topic which desperately needs to be highlighted and talked about. Body shaming, bullying, mental health issues are very important as they impact an individual both emotionally and physically. Spreading love, creating a supportive and healthy environment is important for us as it can go a long way.
Cath up on the full video as Sanam Jung tells us about her challenges with the body suit, the weight she had to gain for her role, and also , that she does not want to promote an unhealthy lifestyle. Adeel Hussain aka Babar in Pyari Mona also addresses his character and how we all go through a process when we play certain characters.
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