Taranjit Kaur on Shabad: `First time I’m portraying an genuine Punjabi`

Worldwide actress Taranjit Kaur will probably be seen within the extremely anticipated sequence Shabad – Reet Aur Riwaz. The present was premiered on 6 February 2026 on Zee5. Set in opposition to the backdrop of a family the place “custom” is an expectation, Shabad explores the dynamics between a cussed father, a teenage son, and the mom caught within the crossfire. Taranjit performs the mom of {the teenager} on this compelling household portrait. Kaur’s movie credit embrace BAFTA-nominated Mouth of Hell, Ankhon Dekhi (a Display Award winner), Airlift, Asur, and Saanjh. Lately, her theatre manufacturing The Chai Queens, which has toured internationally.

Taranjit Kaur on Shabad

Speaking to mid-day about this present, she mentioned, “In Shabad – Reet Aur Riwaaz, I play Manjot, the emotional spine of the household, the one who holds everybody collectively. She is consistently caught within the battle between the daddy and the  son: the daddy needs his son to hold ahead the household custom and develop into a Ragi, whereas the son goals of changing into a footballer. Manjot stands within the center, making an attempt to guard each. She believes in permitting her youngsters to observe their goals, however she additionally understands the burden of custom. Her journey is about discovering steadiness, empathy, and braveness in a house stuffed with strain, and expectation.”

There’s fairly a narrative in how she bagged it. “I bought this position whereas I used to be in Chandigarh, visiting my dad and mom. I acquired a name to audition for the position of Manjot and managed to ship my first take a look at. Inside a few days, I used to be knowledgeable that I had been shortlisted. Then got here an surprising twist — I used to be requested to ship one other take a look at late at night time, round 11 p.m., and ultimately ended up taking pictures it near 1 a.m. I initially hesitated as a result of my dad and mom have been asleep and I didn’t wish to disturb them, however the group was very persuasive as time was extraordinarily tight earlier than the shoot. Round 2–2:30 a.m., I acquired a name from the director and producer telling me I had been finalized and asking if I may an early morning flight to finalize every little thing .I needed to decline — I felt it will be unfair for my dad and mom to get up and discover I had abruptly disappeared. So I requested them to attend till I returned to Mumbai to finish the formalities within the coming days. It was really an uncommon and intense journey, being finalized simply days earlier than happening ground. I’m particularly grateful to the director, Ameet who inspired me to take the leap of religion, and our present runner Jayati, who strongly believed in me.”

Taranjit on why the present felt private

The theme of the present hit residence. “The present is deeply rooted in our traditions and highlights the generational battle that always arises when youngsters and fogeys battle to speak overtly. The daddy is set for his son to hold ahead the household’s religious legacy, whereas the son has goals of his personal, aspiring to develop into a footballer. As seen in lots of households, the mom turns into the bridge between father and son, making an attempt to maintain the peace, preserve communication, and maintain the household collectively whereas honouring each love and ambition. My expertise working has been deeply fulfilling. Coming from a Sikh household, I grew up in a family the place prayers and singing Shabads have been an on a regular basis a part of life. This made the story really feel private and emotionally acquainted. In Indian cinema, Sikh or Punjabi households are sometimes portrayed by clichés — exaggerated, loud, or handled as caricatures. This present, nevertheless, affords an genuine portrayal of Sikh household life. I consider it presents a truthful and respectful reflection of our group and its values,” she mentioned.

Speaking about her expertise of taking pictures the present, she mentioned, “Over the previous couple of years, I’ve largely labored in theatre and movies, taking part in a variety of characters. Nevertheless, that is the primary time I’m portraying an authentically Punjabi character who’s deeply rooted in my very own cultural background. In some ways, it felt like coming again to my roots, and it has been each enriching and deeply significant to characterize my very own group on display. All the course of was enriching, and I used to be lucky to work with an exquisite group. Mihir Ahuja and Mahi Raj, who play my youngsters, are extremely gifted and introduced sincerity to their roles. Suvinder Vicky has been a powerful and supportive co-actor. I really hope the present reaches viewers throughout Punjab and past, resonating with households far and extensive.”