- Actors Aditi Sharma and Sandeep Baswana join Ahmedabad’s ‘Rangratri’ celebrations!
- Colors TV’s new show starring Aditi Sharma to inspire girls who dare to dream
- By recognising their rights and potential, we can pave the way for an equitable society where every girl thrives: Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi
GOWRI MANICKAVASAGAM
‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ is not a slogan but a reality in India. On the occasion of International Girl Child Day on Friday, October 11-the last day of Navratri, Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi emphasised, “Empowering our girls is not just a responsibility; it is our vision for a brighter future. By recognising their rights and potential, we can pave the way for an equitable society where every girl thrives.”
This Navratri, Ahmedabad once again witnessed the dazzling fiesta of lights, laughter, and lots of twirling with Chaniya Cholis! Adding a touch of star power to this year’s celebrations, popular TV actors Aditi Sharma and Sandeep Baswana from COLORS’ new show, ‘Apollena – Sapno Ki Unchi Udann,’ joined the celebrations, showcasing their moves in garba and dandiya. The inspirational drama follows the extraordinary journey of Apollena, a determined young woman aspiring to become India’s first female astronaut, all while working to restore her father’s honor. Their presence brought an exhilarating energy to the festivities, underscoring the show’s themes of ambition and resilience.
The storyline revolves around the sentiment ‘Chookar aasmaan lautana hain pita ka sammaan’ with Aditi Sharma portraying Apollena and Sandeep Baswana playing her father, Girdhar. Apollena’s journey to the stars is full of challenges, particularly when Girdhar is unjustly labeled a gaddaar (traitor), which casts a shadow over her dreams. Will she rise above the stigma of being called a gaddaar’s daughter? ‘Apollena – Sapno Ki Unchi Udann’ will premiere on COLORS soon.
Talking about visiting Ahmedabad, Aditi Sharma says, “Visiting Ahmedabad during Navratri is like stepping into the vibrant heart of India! The energy, the colors, and the devotion here are truly unmatched. This festival of strength resonates deeply with Apollena’s journey—a young woman with ambitious dreams of becoming India’s first female astronaut. Just as Navratri pays tribute to the goddess, our show celebrates the unstoppable spirit within every woman.”
Aditi Sharma, who has neither visited any Space Application Centre of the ISRO nor interacted with woman scientists, said, “Although I was selected through an audition test to play the role of Apollena, I am determined to give the wings if fire to countless girls who dare to dream beyond their means. Nowadays, dotting fathers do lend support to their daughters in help realizing their life’s ambitions. I feel an immense sense of responsibility, and if ‘Apollena’ can play even a small part in inspiring that reality, I’ll consider my mission accomplished.”
The energy, colors, and devotion are truly unparalleled. Excited to essay the role of Girdhar, Sandeep Baswana says, “Coming to Ahmedabad to celebrate Navratri is an incredibly exciting experience for me! The energy, the music, and the joy of the festivities are truly magical. This festival beautifully reflects the spirit of Apollena’s story, where courage and dreams shine. I’m thrilled to be here, not just to enjoy the celebrations but also to share about a show that means so much to me. A big thank you to the city for such a warm welcome, and I’m looking forward to our show’s launch!”
Sending a strong message to the society on promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) among girls, Sandeep Baswana, said, “Fathers play a vital role in shaping the future of their daughters. Instead of thrusting their decisions, they ought to go extraordinary lengths to uplift thier daughters to realise their dreams, even in the face of societal pressure. I think India needs more dads like Apollena’s father – men who are willing to challenge the norms to let their daughter’s soar. This role is my personal moonshot at changing perceptions about parenting and gender roles in our society.”
Watch dreams take flight with ‘Apollena – Sapno Ki Unchi Udann’ on COLORS soon.