I’ve said no to regressive, uni-dimensional TV roles : Ekavali Khanna

Elegant and graceful – these two words best describe Ekavali Khanna who has been in the spotlight for her impactful and nuanced performance in Kohrra. With other movies and shows such as Memories in March, Bombay Begums and Out of Love also in her kitty, Ekavali has been successfully carving a niche for herself with real and richly textured female characters, whether on television or OTT.We caught up with the actress to know more about her work, her life choices and what Durga Puja means to her. Excerpts:
Television in India is a women’s medium. I’ve walked away from many roles because of the regressive content, and the terribly one dimensional portrayal of female characters. If they would make a Buniyaad or a Tamas today I’d go running to TV shows
With time and maturity the significance and meaning of Pujo has changed for me. Now Pujo is about a quiet anjali, and basking in Durga Ma’s presence. But I never skip chicken kabiraji and butterscotch ice cream

Tollywood has given me respect. I value that and hold no grudges
My focus has always been on nurturing my own life through experiences. I’m a sole provider and have responsibilities but I’ve never prioritised wealth over the quality of work I do or the quality of my life. My well-being is a balance between good work and family life, and I’m not willing to compromise on either
As actors, we tend to draw from our personal experiences. For quite a few years, I’ve known, understood and gracefully embraced loneliness. That must have impacted my performance in some way but Indira (her character in Kohrra) and Ekavali are not similar. Indira forgives and accepts, but everything is more black and white for me. I don’t forgive easily
My character in Kohrra was impactful, layered
I took up the role in Kohrra, even though it was a short one, because it was very impactful and layered. The graph and impact of the character was powerful and compelling and gave me scope to showcase my craft.
Love is a beautiful thing. It deserves to be treasured and valued, not exhibited. My heart and feelings are not for the public. In the age of social media, I prefer to keep that side private
Those in Tollywood are my own people
I don’t have such a fragile ego that I’d be enraged or disappointed when I don’t get much work in Tollywood. It happened in the past, but I’m at a stage in my life where I’m not seeking validation or inclusion as an actor. They are my own people. Tollywood has given me respect and affection. I value that & hold no grudges. Some Kolkata directors have shown keen interest to work with me after Kohrra. Let’s see how it works out.
Photo: Anindya Saha; Makeup and hair: Surojit Dutta; Styled by : Meghali Barua Lahiry