The Entertainment Industry, Especially Television, Involves So Much Hard Work That People Don’t See, Says Dipshikkha Nagppal (Exclusive)

Actress Dipshikkha Nagppal is all set to join Ishq Jabariya in a major role, where she will play Devi Sahay, a strong and determined woman in her mid-40s known for her Bihari cooking. On the surface, she seems warm and caring, but she has hidden motives. Devi is looking for a match for her daughter, Jyoti, but her reasons go deeper. Her troubled past and need for revenge drive her actions. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that she is a woman driven by anger and a desire for justice. In a recent telephonic interview with The Free Press Journal, Dipshikkha talks about her new role and her experiences in the entertainment industry. She shares her excitement about playing such a complex character and how it attracted her. The actress also reflects on her surprise at the success of Daler Mehndi’s Delay, discusses the hard work in television, and remembers her time working with Shah Rukh Khan on Koyla. Excepts:

Q. What attracted you to play the character of Devi Sahay?

A. I’ve always loved playing different kinds of roles, especially challenging ones. I’ve been doing a lot of different roles for years now, and lately, I was very inclined to do something with a positive, strong character. Previously, I played a bubbly and exhausted Punjabi character in Megha Bhatt Singh, which was fun. Then, I was approached for Devi Sahay, and I loved the character. She’s a strong, rich, and purposeful woman with a strong aura. She’s not the "bichari" kind of character, and I’ve already tried that, so I’m done with it. Devi Sahay is positive and supportive, but she also has her own motives. There’s a twist and suspense to her character, and that’s what made it exciting for me to take it up. I feel lucky that I got the opportunity to play such a role.

Q. How would you describe Devi Sahay’s personality?

A. People often say I look glamorous, but this is a new kind of look for me. Devi Sahay is not just beautiful; she’s someone who commands attention and respect. She’s a very strong, positive, and confident character, and that strength is portrayed in her presence and her actions.

Q. How did you prepare for such an intense role?

A. In general, when I work on contrasting roles—like one character being a Punjabi lady and another being Devi Sahay—I switch between them. Thankfully, I have the ability to get into character quickly. When I dress up for Devi Sahay, her walk, her posture, her way of speaking, all come naturally to me. When you get into the skin of a character, it becomes easier to forget about your other roles and truly become that person.

Q. You were part of Daler Mehndi’s hit song, tell us about that experience and the success of the song.

A. You’re actually the first person to ask me about Daler — everyone always asks about my work with Shah Rukh Khan or Salman Khan in Koyla and Baadshah. But there’s a funny story behind Daler. At that time, I was staying with my parents and renovating my house. I was shooting for a film when I got a call from Ken Ghosh to be a part of this song. I wasn’t the first choice for the role, and I didn’t have any preparation. I was even skeptical about being cast since I wasn’t made to dance and was just lying on the belgardi (a type of traditional bed). At the time, I wasn’t happy with the song, but when it released, it became a huge hit. I couldn’t believe it! Ken, who directed it, always reminds me of how surprised I was that it became such a success. It just goes to show that success is unpredictable.

Q. Is there a certain aspect of the industry you would want to highlight, which isn’t spoken about much?

A. The entertainment industry, especially television, involves so much hard work that people don’t see. People only focus on the glamour and the fame, but behind the scenes, it’s a lot of hard work. Actors and crew members work 12-hour days, sometimes even more, and often travel to remote locations. There’s immense pressure with the telecast deadlines. We, in the TV industry, don’t get the recognition we deserve. The industry isn't even considered a proper industry by the government. We work day and night, without guaranteed job security, and we often don’t have time for holidays or breaks. People need to respect the amount of hard work that goes into making these shows.

Q. On a lighter note, can you share a memorable moment with Shah Rukh Khan?

A. Oh, there are so many! I remember when we were shooting for Koyla and staying in the same building—his room was next to mine. It felt like a family environment. After pack-up, we would all hang out and play carom. Shah Rukh was always so humble and respectful of everyone’s space. He’s also very professional. I remember once, before shooting, he told everyone to be prepared so that we wouldn’t waste time, and that’s why he’s where he is today. He’s such a gentleman—always taking care of people and respecting them. He’s very down-to-earth, and those moments with him were unforgettable.