Our version of 24 is very much rooted to Indian culture and values – Sapna Pabbi

Sapna Pabbi who plays Anil Kapoor’s teenage daughter Kiran in Colors desi remake of the hit international series 24 is quite happy with the initial response the show is garnering. “It is a great feeling that everybody is interested in the show and also appreciate the hard work and efforts put in by us to change Indian TV.”

This England born and brought up girl fully identifies with her character who has been kidnapped. “I am sure all young girls do, as we usually get into situations where we have not listened to our folks and done things that we should not have done, leading to wrong consequences. The moral is that we learn from our mistakes at the end.”

She feels quite blessed to have worked with a senior actor like Anil Kapoor. “I have learnt a lot from him; the main point I have learnt is to remain focused on whatever you do.”

Sapna does like to compare the desi version of 24 to the American version. “Our show is quite unique like any other production should be. What separates it from the Yank version is that it is very much rooted in Indian culture and values.”

She adds although, “I come from old Blighty, and I am quite desi at heart. My parents are like several Punjabi immigrants, who moved to the UK for a better life. You could describe my dad as the strict bauji from the hit Shah Rukh Khan film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.”

Talking about general Indian content she says, “It is made to suit to a particular audience. Desi serials have a crazy audience in the west (US, UK and Canada) as well. I too would watch them sitting with my mom back home. Having said this, a change is needed and until and unless you don’t take the first move, you will never succeed. Hats off to Anil Kapoor sir for his vision.”

Sapna moved to India a year back to try her hands at the acting craft. Looking ahead she says, “Once 24 wraps up, I would be open to any good show which has meat and great production values. Right now my full concentration is only on 24.” She would love to be part of season 2 of the above thriller, as well if offered.”

Since Sapna speaks with a western accent, we ask her how her Hindi is and she quickly says, “You must have seen me on the show to know how good or bad it is, but yes my Punjabi is even better. Parts of England are known as mini Punjab, you know.”

Wish you all the luck, Sapna!!!