New 'Anandi' not bogged down by character's expectations

Pratyusha, who stepped in the shoes of Avika Gor, told PTI, "I am not really bogged down by the expectations of the character. People have accepted Avika and given her love and respect and I expect the same."

The show, 'Balika Vadhu' is set up in rural Rajasthan and highlights the hazards of of child marriage.

As the show took a five year leap, 19-year-old Pratyusha will now play the role of 'Anandi'.
"I am happy to be part of this show. Though we all have become modern, the practice of child marriage is prevalent in villages in India. It must be stopped as it affects not only childhood but also restricts the growth of a child, as they don't get the opportunity to study further," Pratyusha said.

Jameshedpur-based Partyusha, who is a trained classical dancer and singer, was chosen as the new 'Anandi' through an SMS campaign. She is the final year of B.Com.

"This is the first time I will be seen on TV. Earlier I have given screen tests and done several plays," she said.