Dharna Durga breaks silence on whether her social media fame got her 'Maa Behen': 'Maine proper exam diya hai'

As more social media personalities make the jump to films and web series, one question continues to follow them: were they cast because of talent or because of their online popularity? Content creator-turned-actor Dharna Durga recently addressed that debate while talking about her role in Netflix's dark comedy 'Maa Behen'. The actor, who plays the spirited and outspoken Sushma in the Suresh Triveni directorial, insists that her casting had nothing to do with follower counts.

Talking to Mid-Day, Dharna revealed that securing the role involved a traditional audition process rather than an easy entry through social media fame. "Maine proper exam diya hai," (I went through a proper test) she said with a laugh, before explaining how the casting unfolded. "I gave one audition in Delhi. Then I did another round in Mumbai, where Suresh sir gave me directions on how to do the scene. I was never told, 'We have seen your social media profile, and you are chosen.' I was given a scene and told, 'We want to see if you can pull it off.' What I do on Instagram is also acting. So, it's not that I have been selected on the basis of my following."

'Maa Behen': A different kind of family drama

Directed by Suresh Triveni, 'Maa Behen' blends crime, comedy, and social commentary into a story centred on a mother and her daughters navigating a series of bizarre events involving a missing neighbour. Dharna stars alongside Madhuri Dixit and Triptii Dimri, playing the youngest member of the family. While the film thrives on its quirky humour and chaotic situations, it also explores themes of judgment, misogyny, and the expectations imposed on women. Its darkly comic tone and satirical storytelling have drawn comparisons to another acclaimed Netflix title, 'Darlings'.

Jaya, Rekha and Sushma: A trio that powers the narrative

Although Madhuri Dixit remains one of the biggest attractions of 'Maa Behen', many viewers have singled out Triptii Dimri's performance as one of the film's highlights. Her character undergoes a significant transformation, evolving from a hesitant woman trapped by circumstances into someone willing to stand up for herself. At the heart of the film, however, is the dynamic shared by Rekha, Jaya, and Sushma. Their relationships are messy, emotional, and often strained, but those imperfections give the story much of its emotional weight.

About 'Maa Behen'

The film reaches its strongest moments when the three women stop fighting each other and begin confronting the forces that have shaped their lives. For much of the story, they are divided by misunderstandings, insecurities, and societal pressures. But as secrets emerge and truths are revealed, they begin to understand one another's struggles.

Their eventual solidarity becomes the emotional core of 'Maa Behen'. What starts as a chaotic crime comedy gradually transforms into a story about women finding strength in each other and refusing to be defined by the narrow expectations of the world around them.