Sharvari Wagh, a name that is quickly ascending the ranks of Indian cinema, is marking a significant milestone in her career with the release of her third film this year, Vedaa. Following the unexpected triumphs of Munjya and Maharaj, Sharvari is now stepping into the spotlight with her most pivotal role yet. The film, directed by Nikkhil Advani, not only features her in the titular role but also pits her alongside John Abraham, one of the biggest action stars in the country. This film, which aims to tackle the pressing social issue of caste violence, has been a journey of personal and professional growth for the actress.
The road to Vedaa was far from easy for Sharvari. To convincingly portray her character’s battle against caste violence, she underwent an exhaustive five-month training regimen in boxing. “I had never taken up boxing before. Learning it from scratch was a significant challenge. Before I even started learning the technical aspects of boxing, I had to build my physical fitness and endurance. One specific skill I had to master for the film was the speed bag,” Sharvari shared.
On screen, her character finds a mentor in John Abraham, who helps toughen her up for the fight. Similarly, off screen, John played a crucial role in Sharvari’s preparation. “John is the biggest action star of our country. In real life, he taught me a lot about action sequences and their safety. It has been enriching to learn some tricks of the trade from John. But we were all in service of our director’s vision. I’ve been a huge fan of Nikkhil’s work, and to be directed by him in a titular role is motivating for someone like me who comes with no backing in this industry,” she added.
The film, set for an August 15 release, is a leap of faith for Sharvari and serves as a testament to her dedication to her craft. Despite the recent success of Munjya, she insists that box-office numbers are secondary to her. “This film is important for my survival, growth, and my belief in my craft. Different languages, different lives, and stories attract me as an actor. My character’s relentless fight for equality and justice inspired me to be a part of Vedaa.
. For me, the most important things are the story and what my character is trying to say.”
Vedaa’s theme of standing against casteism deeply resonated with the actress. Sharvari sees it as an empowering narrative that not only aims to entertain but also educate and inspire its audience. “It’s a tale of empowerment, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit can triumph. We want to remind viewers that standing up for what is right, with courage and conviction, can lead to lasting change, and that every individual has the power to make a difference,” she states passionately.
The dedication to her role extended beyond the physical training. Sharvari took immense effort to immerse herself in the social context of her character’s journey. She delved deep into understanding the harsh realities of caste violence and the resilience of those who fight against it. This, she believes, adds an extra layer of authenticity to her portrayal. “Understanding the depth of my character’s struggles made me more committed to doing justice to the role. It’s not just about throwing punches on screen; it’s about embodying the spirit of a woman who stands tall against social atrocities,” Sharvari explains.
Moreover, working with a seasoned actor like John Abraham proved to be a learning curve. His vast experience, especially in action sequences, offered Sharvari invaluable insights. “John’s guidance was instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of action scenes. His attention to detail, especially concerning safety protocols, was a real eye-opener. It’s one thing to perform stunts and quite another to do it safely and effectively. John ensured I understood the importance of both,” she recounts.
Sharvari’s journey with Vedaa has been transformative, pushing her boundaries and enhancing her belief in her abilities. As she waits for the film’s release, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement. For Sharvari, Vedaa is more than just a film; it’s a powerful statement and a beacon of hope that one’s dedication and resilience can indeed spark significant change.
As audiences prepare to witness Sharvari’s compelling performance and the film’s poignant message, it’s clear that Vedaa is set to be a landmark moment in her burgeoning career.
