Rupali Ganguly: I genuinely love you, beta. I’m cheering for you the loudest

Actor Rupali Ganguly, who plays the titular role in Anupamaa, has always spoken fondly of Ishika Shahi, daughter of ace producer Rajan Shahi, who is busy creating Gen Z shows like Jabb Zodiacs Met and Heer Sharma Gayi, both of which have won the audience’s hearts for their unique concept and mature storytelling. She believes what sets Ishika apart is her ability to blend modern storytelling with traditional values that resonates across generations.  She said, “I love Ishika. I’ve always felt she’s my daughter from a previous birth because she is one of the kindest souls I have ever met. She is a genuine animal caregiver and somebody who isextremely emotional and sensitive.” Talking about her work, she said that it reflects the Gen Z mindset. “This child has a rare talent of blending tradition and modernity. I know that the stories that she has come up with, Jabb Zodiacs Met or Heer Sharma Gayi, reflect the Gen Z mindset, but they also are very strong and rooted in emotions.” Rupali, however, mentioned that Ishika also has the pressure to excel. She said, “Her legacy is vast. I think it is 95 years of being in this industry. That is a huge burden on her.shoulders and she carries it with such elan. But she believes that Ishika has the right support with her, her father Rajan Shahi.  “Rajan ji is a fantastic maker. He’s even better as a father. So, I have seen him trying to support Ishika where she needs support. To have a parent like that who gives you the freedom to think on your own—and she definitely has a mind of her own. So, a parent who’s just there as a constant support behind you without meddling because, as a maker and with the kind of experience that he has, you will want to give her two bits when your child is doing something. You want to be that safety net and the anchor who doesn’t want your child to fall.”  She applauded Rajan for giving Ishika the complete freedom to think and to put her vision on the screen. She said, “That is commendable. You are giving your child wings to fly and being there as a net, God forbid they fall.” Wishing Ishika the best, Rupali further said, “I pray with all my heart that you soar really high. Carry the legacy forward and the passion that you have towards telling a story. Let that passion grow. And may you always be the wonderful person you are.”  “I am one person who’s cheering for you from the wings the loudest. You make me so proud with the kind of person you are. I have so much to learn from you,” she added.