Exclusive - Ram Bhavan actress Shalu Shreya: Switching between real and reel emotions is difficult, but it’s also an exciting challenge

Actress Shalu Shreya, who essays the role of Mala Vajpayee in Ram Bhavan, has opened up about the challenges and rewards of bringing her character to life.
Speaking about the complexities of playing Mala, Shalu admitted that the role is starkly different from who she is in real life. "This character has been quite challenging for me because it is completely opposite to who I am. Shalu Shreya and Mala are very different. When you grow in life, your perspective changes, and so does your personality," she shared.
Reflecting on her journey from Delhi to Mumbai, she recalled her early struggles and how they helped her connect with Mala. "When I first moved for work, I was in a phase of learning and adapting. Mala is very similar to that version of me, and portraying emotions from an earlier phase of my life, when I have now grown beyond them, is the biggest challenge."
The actress further elaborated on the difficulty of maintaining a character’s essence in a long-running TV show. Unlike films, where an actor gets closure after a few months, daily soaps demand that an actor live the role every day. "Switching between real and reel emotions is difficult, but it’s also an exciting challenge," she added.
While she is yet to meet producer Rahul Kumar Tewary, Shalu is full of praise for the production house. "I absolutely love working with them! Everything is well-organized and professional. I would love to work with them again," she enthused.
Shalu also spoke about the layered relationships in Ram Bhavan, noting how every character adds a distinct flavor to the storyline. "Mala values family above everything. She doesn’t think about herself or her husband—her entire focus is on keeping the family together," she explained.
On her preparation for the role, Shalu revealed that she initially experimented with two variations before settling on a subtle and real approach. "Mala is hopeful despite her struggles. She reflects the traditional mindset where a woman remains dedicated to her husband and in-laws, even in difficult times."
As for what audiences can expect from Ram Bhavan, she believes the show will deeply resonate with viewers. "The house itself is a symbol of memories and emotions. Many people will relate to the show’s themes of family values, struggles, and emotional bonds."
With an engaging storyline and powerful performances, Ram Bhavan promises to strike a chord with the audience, bringing heartfelt storytelling to television screens.