In the highly successful Season 2 of ‘Tanaav, actress and legendary anchor Gitikka
Ganju Dhar takes on a role that resonates with her personal lineage, history and
heritage. A Kashmiri Pandit by birth, Gitikka’s portrayal of a Kashmiri Muslim widow,
who is the wife of an ex-army officer, is both a professional and emotional journey. The
season centers on a suspenseful plot involving a young terrorist named Al-Damishq,
whose real identity is shrouded in mystery. Gitikka’s character finds herself intricately
connected to this central figure, with her storyline intersecting with his in unexpected
ways.
For Gitikka, the decision to take on this role was influenced by her admiration for the
show’s directors, Sudhir Mishra and Eshwar Niwas, as well as the story’s setting in
Kashmir, a place that holds significant meaning for her. “Playing a role set in Kashmir
felt like a dream come true,” she shares. “As a Kashmiri Pandit, I felt a strong
connection to the story and the character, even though I am portraying someone from a
different background.”
Interestingly, the role also draws parallels with Gitikka’s real life. In ‘Tanaav, she plays
the wife of an army officer, a character detail that hits close to home as Gitikka herself is
the daughter of an army officer. “The role felt very natural to me. Although in reality, I’m
a Kashmiri Pandit, stepping into the shoes of a Kashmiri Muslim widow allowed me to
explore and connect with a different facet of my roots.”
The shoot, however, was not without its challenges. Gitikka recalls filming while
suffering from high fevers, a physically demanding experience that was made more
manageable by the supportive environment on set. “Working with E Niwas was a
smooth experience. He is a gentle director who allows his actors complete freedom to
perform. Despite the challenges, it was a good shoot.”
Gitikka also praises her co-star, Gaurav Arora, describing him as a very talented, young
actor. Together, they navigated the intense and emotional demands of the scenes they
essayed together, contributing to what has turned out to be a compelling season of
‘Tanaav’.
As the series unfolds, viewers will see Gitikka’s character navigate the complexities of
Nafeesa’s life, while the mystery of Al-Damishq’s true identity slowly comes to light. For
Gitikka, this role is more than just a part she plays; it’s a connection to her roots and a
testament to her versatility as an actor.
Gitikka is a multi-award-winning anchor with probably the most glorious career a female
emcee has ever had in the Indian experiential industry, and is one of the most
distinguished orators of India. Apart from acting, she is spreading her wings as a
motivational speaker, too.
