RJ Malishka Pens a Heartfelt Note on Playing Sarojini Naidu

Life has come a full circle for RJ and actor Malishka Mendonsa, who first embodied the character of Sarojini Naidu in a school competition and has now brought the revolutionary poet and freedom fighter to life, on screen in Nikhil Advani's web series, Freedom at Midnight streaming on Sony Liv. Known for her vibrant presence on the radio, Malishka's dedication and love for the role shines through in her portrayal of Naidu, a figure she has admired since childhood.

RJ Malishka On Playing Sarojini Naidu:

To capture the essence of Sarojini Naidu, Malishka went to remarkable lengths, drawing inspiration from her memories and utilizing her unique resources. For the audition, she chose to wear her mother's sari—a cherished piece that added authenticity to her appearance and reminded her of her school play where she portrayed the character of Sarojini Naidu.

Photo Credit: Instagram

"I Auditioned For The Part..."

She posted a heartfelt note on social media and wrote, "In 2022 I auditioned for the part of Sarojini Naidu with @onmykayroll for Freedom At Midnight to be directed by Nikkhil Advani. I remember wearing my mom's sari and jewelry and doing my hair the way Sarojini Naidu did, the kind I loved my whole childhood, also with that high-placed forehead Bindi. I loved Sarojini, the Nightingale of India, even as a child because I dressed as her for a competition."

"I Prayed for It..."

She added, "How proud I was to do this audition and it was almost like deep down I knew I Would be her!

Post that audition I changed into a ghagra choli at the @kavishsinha ‘s office itself, while someone else auditioned outside! I had to be on stage with Falguni Pathak in an hour because It was Navratri, the Goddess season and I hoped and prayed that I would be Sarojini. It happened!"

"I Will Never Forget..."

"2 years later, around Goddess season. Freedom at Midnight is out today. The shoot that started this year took blood, sweat, tears, resolve and an entire crew working super hard despite many a hardship. Some natural, like the rain and some unavoidable like a melting prosthetic or two. We marched on because one way or the other we believed in our director's vision (who btw always referred to us on set only by the name of the Freedom Fighter we were playing) I will never forget the various tones in which he bellowed ‘SAROJINIIII' ! I will miss it! Also, the sheer deliciousness of getting to etch out and play these mighty men and women that lived and shaped our Nation," she concluded.

Sarojini Naidu was an effervescent yet composed woman. This portrayal of her, possibly the first of its kind on-screen, reflects her historical significance and vibrant personality. Malishka has worked to stay true to the character, capturing Naidu's spirit with sincerity. In doing so, she comes full circle, turning her school memories of Sarojini Naidu into a powerful on-screen tribute.