Pratik Gandhi's 'Gandhi' Series to Premiere at TIFF

Mumbai, Aug 22 (PTI): Actor Pratik Gandhi is eagerly anticipating the world premiere of his much-awaited series, "Gandhi," at the esteemed Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) next month. The actor remarks that the series has been crafted in India for a global audience.

The series, under the direction of Hansal Mehta, explores the life of Mahatma Gandhi and the other influential figures who played significant roles in India's fight for independence.

"TIFF marks a significant milestone, not just for me or the team but for the entire nation, as it's the first Indian series to be selected there. We often discuss India as a soft power, and this show made in India is meant for the world, being the first-ever series focused on Gandhi, which makes me very proud," said Pratik Gandhi in an interview with PTI. Known for his roles in "Scam 1992," "Madgaon Express," and "Saare Jahan Se Accha," he shares his pride in the project.

Covering the years from 1888 to 1947, the show's first season will highlight Gandhi's formative years from 1888 to 1915, with subsequent seasons delving into his journey from 1915 to 1932 and then from 1932 to 1947.

The 45-year-old actor expresses hope that the series will resonate universally by emphasizing Gandhi's "human" qualities.

"The show will highlight his human aspect. It is meant to resonate with everyone across the globe, transcending generations and age groups. We are showcasing a side of Gandhi that is unfamiliar to many," said Pratik. He noted his unique connection to his surname 'Gandhi,' which he didn't fully grasp until portraying Gandhi, both in a play and later in Mehta's series.

"I was born with the surname Gandhi. In school, kids would teasingly call me 'Gandhi ji' and 'Baapu.' I disliked it back then," he recalled. "However, my father once told me, 'You don't know the power of this surname yet. Once you learn and grow up, you'll understand.' At the time, I thought he was merely consoling me," Pratik added.

Pratik mentions having performed more than 500 shows of the Gujarati play "Mohan No Masalo" over the past decade, saying, "I had no clue I was somewhere preparing for this to happen (the series)."

The show also stars Pratik's wife, actor Bhamini Oza, as Kasturba Gandhi and "Harry Potter" fame Tom Felton as Josiah Oldfield. Produced by Applause Entertainment, "Gandhi" is likely to be released by December.

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