How did Mahika Sharma Prepare for Her Goan Role in ‘Costao’?
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Synopsis
Actress Mahika Sharma opens up about her immersive preparation for her role in ‘Costao,’ exploring the Goan culture and the emotional depth of her character. Discover how she embraced local nuances to deliver a captivating performance in this gripping narrative set in the 1990s.
Key Takeaways
- Mahika Sharma dedicated herself to learning the Goan accent.
- She immersed herself in the 1990s Goa culture to connect with her role.
- The character of Cassandra represents resilience amidst loss.
- Collaboration with seasoned actors like Nawazuddin Siddiqui enriched her experience.
- The film explores deep emotional themes relevant to the societal context of the 1990s.
Mumbai, May 16 (NationPress) Actress Mahika Sharma has shared insights into her preparation for her latest project, ‘Costao,’ explaining her dedication to mastering the Goan accent and local customs.
The actress expressed that diving into the Goan culture was a challenging endeavor, but it allowed her to connect profoundly with her character. She focused on speech nuances and everyday behaviors to ensure authenticity in her portrayal. Discussing her character, she mentioned, “I portray Cassandra, a young woman whose life shatters following the murder of her husband, Peter, by Costao. Once a vibrant, nurturing individual with aspirations of a happy family, she finds herself grappling with profound grief, frustration, and a sense of powerlessness in a society that oppresses her. Her journey is marked by loss, resilience, and a gradual metamorphosis from a lively spirit to mere survival.”
When queried about her preparation for a period film set in the 1990s, Mahika revealed, “I immersed myself in the essence of 1990s Goa—conducting research, engaging with locals, and refining my Goan accent and mannerisms. I even wrote letters from Cassandra’s perspective to delve into her emotions and motivations. This was my first experience portraying a grey character, and it was crucial to empathize with Cassandra. I had to grasp how loss can transform an individual, driving them to extremes.”
Mahika also reflected on her collaboration with Nawazuddin Siddiqui. “Working alongside Nawazuddin was an exemplary experience. He is humble, insightful, and immensely supportive. During our initial scene together, where my Cassandra confronts Costao, he referred to me as a method actor. His encouragement and effortless performance were genuinely inspiring.”
Recalling a particularly challenging yet memorable moment, she stated, “Every scene posed its own challenges, but one of the most unforgettable was a courtroom sequence where I experienced a breakdown due to a panic attack. Although it didn’t make it to the final cut, the silence on set following my take was remarkable. Our amazing director, Sejal Ma’am, trusting me with such an intense scene was a significant confidence booster.”
Directed by debutant Sejal Shah, “Costao” also features Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar, and Hussain Dalal. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1990s in Goa, “Costao” premiered on May 1 on ZEE5.
Point of View
Mahika Sharma's dedication to authentically portraying her character in 'Costao' reflects a growing trend among actors to embrace cultural nuances and emotional depth in their performances. This approach not only enhances the narrative but also fosters a deeper connection with the audience, showcasing the evolving landscape of Indian cinema.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What challenges did Mahika Sharma face while preparing for her role?
Mahika Sharma faced the challenge of mastering the Goan accent and understanding local mannerisms, which required extensive research and immersion in the Goan culture.
Who directed the film 'Costao'?
'Costao' is directed by debutant Sejal Shah, marking her entry into the film industry.
What is the premise of Mahika Sharma's character in 'Costao'?
Mahika plays Cassandra, a woman whose life is turned upside down after her husband's murder, portraying a journey of grief and resilience.
When did 'Costao' premiere?
'Costao' premiered on May 1 on ZEE5.
Who are some co-stars of Mahika Sharma in 'Costao'?
Mahika Sharma stars alongside Priya Bapat, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar, and Hussain Dalal.
