Playing a character undergoing emotional turmoil on screen can often take a toll on an actor. Actress Riya Munjal, who portrays the role of Bhoomika in Zee TV’s popular show Lakshmi Niwas, recently opened up about her character’s troubled marital life, her off-screen equation with co-star Priom, and offered crucial advice to today’s generation on recognising red flags in relationships.
Reflecting on her journey with the character, Riya shared how different her off-screen personality is compared to Bhoomika’s current reality, “It has been a very challenging journey for me as Bhoomika in Lakshmi Niwas. I am very carefree in my real life, just like how Bhoomika was before her marriage. Initially, it was a challenge to get into the troubled phase of Bhoomika after her wedding. But now, all looks fine. In fact, I now get a feeling that this is the normal life for Bhoomika, which is not right (smiles).”
She added that shooting high-drama, intense sequences naturally impacts her mood on set, “On a serious note, Bhoomika lives in a toxic world, which is too much for her to handle. When I shoot these scenes, people on the set know that I get into an irritated mood as I shoot for it.”
If you identify toxicity quite late in marriage, it is bad for any relationship.
Despite living a life of luxury with her husband Raj, Bhoomika’s core desire remains simple—a genuine emotional connection and stability. “Bhoomika wants genuine love. Raj is rich, and she lives a luxurious life, no doubt. But she is a person who loves to be with her close ones. She knows that Raj loves Bhoomika. But Raj’s behavioural changes are too tough for her to handle. She is not lured by his riches. In fact, she continues to be in Raj’s life with the hope that she can change him.”
Speaking about her on-screen partnership with co-star Priom, Riya expressed gratitude for their smooth working dynamic and effort-free chemistry. “Any scene between Priom and me works out well. We go with the flow and don’t prepare much. We are happy to have a good tuning as an onscreen couple.”
Drawing lessons from Bhoomika’s struggles, Riya urged individuals in real life to pay attention to subtle warning signs in marriage and relationships rather than turning a blind eye. “Start looking for toxic red flags from the very beginning of your wedding. If you are in a relationship, it is important to know your partner well and study the person. If you identify toxicity quite late in marriage, it is bad for any relationship. Don’t rush into your relationship; take your time to choose your partner. Don’t live in an illusory world, thinking things will change with time.”
She further applauded the modern generation for being proactive about their mental well-being and self-respect. “Today’s generation knows very well where to draw a line in a relationship. I would want to say -Don’t fear to take your stand if you notice unusual events.”
When asked about what viewers can expect in the upcoming episodes, Riya hinted at a hopeful yet uncertain road ahead for the couple. “Bhoomika is actually trying to change Raj. Raj is also keen to change himself. I hope that Raj changes, but you have to wait for the track ahead.”
