Behind the scenes: Pranali Rathod and Aashay Mishra talk about exploring Jodhpur’s royal heritage while filming ‘Durga’

COLORS’ latest show ‘Durga – Atoot Prem Kahani’ has instantly garnered the love of the viewers with its emotional journey of love that dares to defy societal boundaries. Set against the culturally rich and majestic backdrop of Jodhpur, the story follows Durga, a courageous kabila girl played by Pranali Rathod, and her love for Anurag, a royal heir portrayed by Aashay Mishra. Their on-screen chemistry, coupled with the rustic charm of Jodhpur’s landscapes, has struck a chord with audiences.

The city, with its grand forts, vibrant markets, and deep-rooted cultural heritage, not only served as a stunning location for the show but also enriched the actors’ connection to their roles. Both Pranali and Aashay shared how their time in Jodhpur brought their characters to life, from exploring local cuisines to getting lost in the city’s rich history.

Talking about her experience Pranali Rathod said, “Filming in Jodhpur was an incredible experience, especially since Durga comes from a humble background. The rugged beauty of the forts and the local surroundings resonated with her character’s strength and simplicity. It was more about connecting with the natural, untamed spirit of the land. Walking through Jodhpur’s ancient streets, wearing Durga’s costumes, and being surrounded by the authentic culture—whether it was the traditional folk music or the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans—helped me get into her mindset. The raw energy of the city truly mirrored Durga.”

Aashay Mishra added, “The experience was exhilarating, and I say that for multiple reasons. First of all, shooting in a real-life location in itself is a beautiful experience because you meet local people, you explore local markets, you taste local food cuisines, it’s beautiful. Then, we shot in dunes, oasis, and forts. Any place in Rajasthan is royal and picturesque, every and any corner is a beautiful frame, so rich in heritage and culture. We went to the local markets to shop, bought bangles, sarees, turbans, jootis and a lot of jewellery pieces. There was a particular moment that stayed with me while we were shooting. It was during the revealing scene in the middle of the desert, where we emerged from an oasis and found ourselves surrounded by the beautifully lit desert, with yellow dim lights stretching as far as the eye could see, utter silence, and a starry night. We stayed in a fort, shot the promo and some episodes there. We had fun speaking to the locals there, it was a beautiful experience.”