Roopa Ganguly’s portrayal of Draupadi in the legendary Doordarshan series Mahabharat remains one of the most powerful performances in Indian television history. While the character is celebrated for her strength and dignity, the actress has revealed that bringing Draupadi’s emotions to life often came with a significant personal impact.
In a resurfaced interview, Roopa Ganguly shared that some scenes, especially the intense Cheer Haran sequence, demanded deep emotional involvement. The actress said that stepping into Draupadi’s mindset required her to internalise the character’s pain, vulnerability and sense of betrayal. As a result, filming many of these scenes left her emotionally drained.
Roopa Ganguly mentioned that the Cheer Haran scene, in particular, affected her profoundly. Although she performed the sequence in a single take, she was unable to maintain her composure afterwards. The emotional weight of the scene overwhelmed her, and she broke down in tears on set. She recalled that the entire crew stood quietly, recognising the immense pressure such scenes placed on actors.
The actress also reflected on the responsibility that came with portraying Draupadi, a deeply respected figure in Indian mythology. She explained that the makers ensured the portrayal was treated with sensitivity and respect, and she herself approached the role with sincerity and seriousness. Her aim was to convey the dignity and emotional depth of the character truthfully.
Roopa Ganguly shared that playing Draupadi was not easy because the character goes through some of the most traumatic moments in the epic narrative. Bringing these scenes to life required more than just acting technique. It demanded empathy, emotional immersion and a strong connection with the character’s inner world.
Despite the emotional toll, Roopa Ganguly said she felt honoured to have portrayed such a significant role. The love and respect she continues to receive from viewers even today make the experience meaningful for her. Fans still remember her intense expressions, powerful voice and unwavering portrayal of Draupadi’s strength.
The interview has once again highlighted the dedication Roopa Ganguly brought to Mahabharat and the personal challenges behind her iconic performance. Her portrayal remains one of the defining interpretations of Draupadi on Indian television.