TV adaptation of Rajinder Singh Bedi's 'Lajwanti' launched

'Rajinder Singh Bedi Dwara Rachit Lajwanti', a new periodic drama based on the short story 'Lajwanti' written by the late writer Rajinder Singh Bedi, was launched here on Tuesday.

Launched in the presence of his grandchildren -- Ila Bedi, Rajat Bedi and Manik Bedi, the show is touted to be a "tribute" to the legendary writer.

Known as one of the leading 20th century progressive writers of Urdu fiction, Rajinder was also a Hindi film director, screenwriter and dialogue writer. As a screenwriter and dialogue writer, he is best known for films like "Abhimaan", "Anupama" and "Madhumati". As a director, he is popular for "Dastak" and "Phagun".

Set against the backdrop of partition, "Rajinder Singh Bedi Dwara Rachit Lajwanti", which will be aired on Zee TV starting September 28, is based on the love story of Lajwanti and Sunderlal.

"Today is a very auspicious day for the Bedi family. Though I've been writing for 15 years, today is a very emotional moment for me because after 15 years I'm getting an opportunity to explore my grandfather's story onscreen," Ila, who has produced the show, said at the launch.

"The story of the show is a little serious but it's a love story. We have converted his short story into a series. Though 'Lajwanti' is based in 1947, the way we have written it is very contemporary in its tone," she added.

Debutante actress Ankita Sharma will be seen playing the title role in the show along with actor Sid Makkar, who will play the role of Sunderlal. Manik will be seen as Sunderlal's father Kishorilal.

"Lajwanti is a dream role to play for any actress. I'm very lucky to debut with such a role on TV. Also if we look back at Rajinder Singh Bedi's work, then actresses like Vyjayanthimala and Jaya Bhaduri, they have played roles written by him. Now that I'm getting my debut with a role written by him, I feel very lucky. To go back to that era... I thoroughly read 'Lajwanti'," Ankita said.

To give a real feel of the Independence era, the show has been shot across various locations in Kashmir and Patiala. Also a special set has been made in Filmcity, Mumbai.

Talking about the show, Sid, best known for his roles in international films like "The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" and "Save Your Legs!", said: "Sunderlal is very different from the typical male characters that we see on TV. I originally don't like doing daily soaps. But the concept of 'Lajwanti' attracted me and I decided to be a part of it."

On the occasion of Rajinder Singh's birth centenary this year, the show is said to be a perfect tribute to his work.

"'Lajwanti' is a very powerful and ageless story. The core story of the show is relatable. Therefore, it will be resonating when it will go on air. It's set in a very unique environment. The show will be a tribute to Rajinder Singh Bedi," Zee TV business head Pradeep Hejmadi told IANS.