Lakshmi Niwas actress Manasi Joshi Roy: A mother on screen or off screen is a mother

Lakshmi Niwas depicts the emotional plight of the average middle-class lifestyle and follows the story of a woman Lakshmi (played by Manasi Joshi Roy), who puts the needs of her children ahead of her own. Lakshmi's character is centered around a mother's ability to protect, her concerns for her children's future, and the deep emotions she feels for each child.

For Manasi connecting with her role Lakshmi was almost instinctive. The instincts, experience and emotions she had as a mother were probably very similar to those of Lakshmi. Her character Lakshmi carries not only the difficulties of a household but the qualities of nurturing, protectiveness and hope that characterise her as a mother.

Speaking about the emotional connection she felt with the role, Manasi Joshi Roy shared, “What drew me to Lakshmi was the emotional depth she carries. I’ve always gravitated towards characters that have lived experiences and layers, and for me, age has never been a limitation or something to shy away from. I don’t believe in hiding who I am or altering myself to fit a certain perception; honesty is far more compelling to me as an actor."

She added, “I am a mother myself, and while Lakshmi’s circumstances may not mirror mine exactly, the emotional instinct is universal. A mother, whether on screen or off screen, carries the same quiet awareness, the constant concern, the instinct to protect, and the need to place her family’s well-being above her own. Lakshmi embodies that truth with restraint and dignity. Playing her felt instinctive rather than performed, and that’s what made the character deeply fulfilling for me.”

The character of Lakshmi represents the essence of motherhood. She continually supports her family while accepting life's many burdens without regret. Manasi captures this essence through her portrayal. We see the complexity of Lakshmi's character, but it feels so real because of the way Manasi is able to bring authenticity to that role.

As we prepare to see how the story unfolds of Lakshmi Niwas, we can expect to see the story behind Lakshmi's journey from being a caring mother, to facing adversity, to overcoming challenges in the form of emotional and physical endurance that comes with being a mother.