Maanvi Gagroo Discusses Body Positivity and Her Role in Heer Sara

Maanvi Gagroo is a standout talent in the entertainment industry. Known for her impactful performances in digital series and Bollywood films, she first captured audiences' attention with her roles in cult favorites like TVF Pitchers, TVF Tripling, and Four More Shots, Please. Recently, she starred in the film Heer Sara, portraying a character who confronts body shaming head-on. We had the opportunity to chat with her about her experiences.

It’s been a while since we last saw you in Heer Sara. Are you selective about your projects?

Haha! Perhaps a bit of both! It takes something truly exciting to get me out of bed, right? Jokes aside, while the last season of Four More Shots Please! premiered last December, it has indeed been some time since my last theatrical release. Various factors contributed to that.

In Heer Sara, you play a lively and impulsive character. How much of yourself did you infuse into this role?

I wish I could be as candid as my character! It would be such a thrill! I find people who speak without a filter to be incredibly intriguing. It’s fascinating to discern whether they act from innocence, arrogance, or a mix of both. While I’m not overtly like her, I do relate to the humor she brings, even if it’s unintentional.

Heer Sara includes sharp commentary on body shaming. Have you encountered similar situations in your life, and how do you handle them?

It varies. I don’t experience overt body shaming, but I do get comments like someone saying I’ve lost weight as a compliment or being labeled bold and confident just for wearing trendy outfits. While I’ve faced some of this, it pales in comparison to what many women endure.

What were some memorable moments during the filming of Heer Sara? How was it working with Patralekha? Can co-stars become friends?

I genuinely believe they can! If both actors are secure in their roles, there’s a great chance for friendship. Patralekha and I were familiar with each other socially and admired each other’s work, which made us excited to collaborate. Although we’re not extremely close, I know I can reach out to her anytime, and she feels the same. We had a blast filming together, especially since our characters are so different!