Ashnoor Kaur on her break from television: "I wanted people to kind of forget that child image"

Ashnoor Kaur, known for her impressive start as a child artist, has recently made a much-anticipated return to television with the Colors show Suman Indori after a three-year break during which she enjoyed her college life. This new role represents a significant shift from her previous work, showcasing her growth as an actress. Suman Indori offers a unique blend of drama, romance, thrill, and comedy set against the vibrant backdrop of Indore.

In an exclusive conversation with India Forums, Ashnoor opens up about her comeback and the exciting new chapter of her career. She discusses the distinct challenges and preparations involved in embodying her dynamic new character, as well as her experiences filming in Indore.

I felt it was important for people to move past the image of me as a child actor and to accept me better now that I've grown up

- Ashnoor Kaur:

You are making a visit to television with Suman Indori after a break. What inspired you to take on this role, and what made this project stand out to you?

The storyline of the show is truly unique. It's not your typical Saas-Bahu drama. Instead, it's a blend of everything—drama, romance, thrill, comedy—it offers the perfect balance. I was particularly drawn to the character of Suman. She's a strong, outspoken, and independent girl. Essentially, she's the "man of her house," being the breadwinner of her family. She shoulders the responsibility for everyone, stands up for them, and speaks on their behalf.

Suman is the kind of character who isn't afraid to assert herself, and that's what makes her so compelling. The story is very empowering, and I believe TV as a medium has the power to touch many lives. If we can present a strong portrayal of women and touch lives, why not? That's why I chose Suman Indori as my comeback show.

Also, the break was a decision I made in advance as I wanted to enjoy my college life. I felt it was important for people to kind of forget the child image of me as so that they can accept me better now that I've grown up.

While embodying Suman wasn't challenging in terms of performance, adapting to her Indori accent posed a challenge

- Ashnoor Kaur

Can you tell us more about your character, Suman? How is she different from your previous roles, and was it challenging for you?

Suman is an Indori character, outspoken, and the breadwinner of her family. She has a quick temper, is very outgoing, and speaks her mind. While embodying Suman wasn't challenging in terms of performance, adapting to her Indori accent posed a challenge. Since Suman is a chat seller, capturing the local accent of Indore—how people speak on the streets—was crucial. Maintaining this accent consistently throughout the role posed a bit of a challenge.

How did you prepare to bring Suman's vibrant personality to life?

I worked with a diction coach to master the Indori accent and understand the local nuances. We also started filming in Indore, which gave me the opportunity to observe the local lifestyle firsthand. I visited places like  Bazaar to see how people sell food and picked up on their behaviours and body language, which helped in preparing for the role.

How has the experience of shooting in Indore been so far?

Shooting in Indore has been amazing. We had a week's schedule there and thoroughly enjoyed it. The people in Indore are very warm. It was also special for me as I hadn't been back to Indore in 12 years. My first show with Colors was also set in Indore, and this show marks my return to Indian television with another Indori backdrop.

As for the challenges, yes, I was aware that I was turning down many projects. That was a bit challenging because I knew there was work coming my way

- Ashnoor Kaur

What were the most exciting and challenging aspects of being away from television for a while?

The exciting aspects were, of course, me enjoying my college life. I really wanted to give that time to myself, and I did. I explored a lot of new things and got to know myself better. All three years I spent in college were very, very exciting for me. As for the challenges, yes, I was aware that I was turning down many projects. That was a bit challenging because I knew there was work coming my way. However, it was a break I had chosen. Saying no was somewhat difficult, but I don't regret any part of it. At the end of the day, it was all worth it because I got to know myself better and truly enjoyed my college life. College life won't come back, but you can always keep working.

The show is set against the lively backdrop of Indore. What can viewers expect from this show?

Viewers can expect the show to be a complete "chaat" – a perfect blend of spices, just like the chaat itself. It will have a bit of everything: sweet, sour, crispy, and more. The show aims to be a family entertainment piece that everyone can enjoy together.

Colors' Suman Indori started streaming its first episode on September 3rd, featuring Ashnoor Kaur, along with Anita Hassanandani and Zain Imam.