After making her mark in daily soaps, Sayli Salunkhe is now venturing into the mythological genre with Siddharth Kumar Tewary’s Veer Hanuman: Bolo Bajrang Bali Ki Jai. She steps into the role of Mata Anjani and is particularly thrilled about her character’s visual grandeur, brought to life through an intricate and majestic costume.
She says, “Anjani Mata’s look is absolutely breathtaking — regal, detailed, and deeply rooted in tradition. The costume is designed to exude grace and divinity, featuring intricate embroidery, heavy jewellery, and a beautifully crafted crown. Inspired by ancient temple art and Ajanta Ellora paintings, every element makes it feel both powerful and elegant. However, what’s most fascinating is how, the moment I wear it, I instantly feel transformed. It helps me embody the character in a way that feels incredibly real.”
Seeing herself in this divine avatar is an experience unlike any other. She shares, “The transformation is magical. The second I step into costume and see myself in the mirror, it’s as if I’ve entered another world. It allows me to connect with Anjani Mata on a much deeper level.”
One of the most striking aspects of her look is the Apsara avatar. She says, “The headgear, crafted from Shola (a delicate material made from shreds of wood), was created by 10 skilled Kumartoli artists. Each Apsara look required 12 individual pieces of headgear, and over 100 headpieces were made for the show! The level of artistry behind it is astounding, and wearing it feels truly special.”
Bringing this elaborate look to life requires immense effort. Sayli reveals, “The entire process takes about two hours — from costume and jewellery to makeup. The most time-consuming part is the headgear and accessories, which draw inspiration from Alpona art, adding an extra layer of richness. Every detail, from the handwoven fabrics to the intricate jewellery, plays a crucial role in making Anjani Mata’s presence feel authentic on screen.”
However, the grandeur comes with its challenges. “The costumes are stunning but undeniably heavy. Wearing multiple layers of fabric and intricate jewellery for long hours can be exhausting. But, in a way, the weight actually helps — I naturally adjust my posture, making it more graceful, which aligns perfectly with the character’s essence. Anjani Mata isn’t just a divine figure; she’s also a warm and protective mother. Balancing both aspects while donning such an elaborate look has been an exciting challenge,” she concludes.
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