Lead pairs of television shows are used to looking a certain way. The protagonists of the upcoming show Dhhai Kilo Prem, however, don’t quite fit the mould. Unlike their skinny contemporaries, the two lead actors in the show are chubby and unapologetically so. To fit the bill, leading lady Anjali Anand went from 72 kg to 108 kg. Meherzan Mazda, too, followed suit by going from 80 to 102 kg.
Talking about his transformation, Meherzan says, “I had to go through special physical training to match the body type for my character. The script demanded me to get into a very weird shape. Along with muscular training in the gym, I went on a guilt-free indulgence diet.” Was he apprehensive? “I was excited to take up this character, as it was a new concept. It is something I haven’t done before. I was on a strict diet to gain weight. I had to put on 16 kilos in two months and I am glad that I have managed to do it.”
Elaborating on being the first unconventional lead pair on TV, Anjali says, “At a time when we are so obsessed with our physical appearances, thoughts like being comfortable in your own skin are passé. Our show will address the same issue but in a compelling way. Dhhai Kilo Prem will definitely break stereotypes with its journey, drama, romance and humour. The makers are all set to present a rare blend of content.”
The story somehow reminds one of the film Dum Laga ke Haisha. So is the show a remake of the film in any way? “We are talking about a social stereotype and how it influences us and our thinking as individuals. The show is inspired from the roles we play in our own lives as heroes or villains. It’s about letting an outsider decide the definition of ‘perfect’ for us. The movie is nothing close to our storyline and the viewers will get to see some inspiring and adorable moments between the lead couple, away from the expected love story norms on the small screen,” the two tell us.
So how does it feel to play the unconventional protagonists on television? “It is really challenging given the expectations from the industry and viewers. We are working each day towards giving our best,” says Meherzan. His onscreen partner couldn’t agree more. “The characters are very close to our hearts and we share a lot of similarities with them in terms of their lifestyle and habits among other things. Our weight makes us look charming and we are sure viewers will start loving us like any other ‘perfect’ character in their favourite show,”she signs off.
