'Roop...' breaks shackles of traditionalism: Mitaali

Actress Mitaali Nag says that her upcoming show "Roop - Mard Ka Naya Swaroop" breaks the shackles of traditionalism when it comes to "set roles of men and women" in the Indian society.

In the show, eight-year-old boy - Roop (Afaan Khan) questions the sensitivities of a patriarchal society that decides how men and women ought to behave.

"'Roop...' breaks the shackles of traditionalism when it comes to set roles of men and women in the society. My character Kamla is like any other mother and wife; who is overprotective towards her kids and willing to go to any extent to protect them from their father's wrath," Mitaali said in a statement.

Produced by Rashmi Sharma Telefilms Ltd, the show will premiere on Colors channel on May 28.

"The most beautiful part about Roop's character is that he's been born into a family with three sisters. By default, he loves helping his mom and playing with his sisters, which in the real world isn't considered appropriate for boys," said Manisha Sharma, Programming Head - Colors.

"As an eight-year-old boy, Roop is very confused as to why the universe is pushing girls to become inspectors, pushing girls to drive but look down upon boys who want to study home-science, enjoy stitching or cooking. He's very perplexed because his father is a 'daroga' who thinks men should be very macho and should play with guns to show their manhood."

Producer Rashmi Sharma from Rashmi Sharma Telefilms said: "We may believe that we have evolved towards modern thinking but the truth is that deep down, we still harbour certain preconceptions that go unquestioned. Why does our daughter get a kitchen set while the son plays with a car?

"This thought needs to be re-looked and with 'Roop - Mard ka Naya Swaroop', we are attempting to bring a positive change in the mindset that prevails in today's society."

Speaking about his character, actor Yash Tonk said: "A 'daroga' who takes pride in his moustache, Shamsher Singh answers to no one and advocates strength as a sign of manliness."

"But I urge all men of this country to understand that women have the same sentiments and aspirations like men and we should accept them as an equally important part of the society."

--IANS

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