After marking her small screen debut and acting comeback with critically-acclaimed web series Aarya, Sushmita Sen is all set to play the role of transgender activist Gauri Sawant in a biographical drama series based on her extraordinary life. Sen shared the first look of the series on Instagram, sending her fans in a frenzy. The former Miss Universe really seems to have nailed down the secret recipe to making a hard-hitting, superhit web series—a strong story, an unconventional role, and unmatched acting prowess. And with Taali slated for release soon, Sen is obviously on a roll.
The focus of the series, Gauri Sawant, is heralded as an activist who revolutionalised transgender rights in India and paved the way for history-defining constitutional changes for years to come. Born in Pune, Ganesh became Gauri when she decided to transform her outer self to match her true inner identity, and discard her assigned-at-birth gender and old life. Sawant was one of the first petitioners of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) which was filed in 2013. This led to the Supreme Court officially recognising transgender as the third gender and sealing the deal with a final verdict in 2014. The inspiring personality is also the director of Sakhi Char Chowghi, a foundation that helps the transgender community and people suffering from HIV/AIDS.
Taali will throw the spotlight on Gauri’s notable life— right from her childhood and her transition, to her valuable contribution towards shaking up the transgender movement in India. Directed by National award-winning filmmaker Ravi Jadhav, the series is produced by Arjun Singgh Baran, Kartk D Nishandar and Afeefa Nadiadwala under Viacom18.
Sen took to social media to unveil the highly-awaited first look of the momentous web series and wrote, “Taali - Bajaungi nahi, bajwaungi (I will not clap, but make others do it). #firstlook as #ShreegauriSawant Nothing makes me prouder & more grateful than to have the privilege of portraying this beautiful person & of bringing her story to the world!! Here’s to life & to everyone’s right to live it with dignity!! I love you guys!!! #duggadugga.“
Sen added that the series will chronicle the trangender activist’s “story of struggle, resilience, and indomitable power”.
The actress also expressed her gratitude in a statement, “Nothing makes me more proud and grateful than to bring this journey that has been rife with challenges, only to witness a revolution! This one is special for reasons multifold, and I’m really excited to associate with Viacom18 for this one. This is just the beginning, stay tuned for what’s in store.”
There you have it, another gripping series to add to your watchlist.
