Neha Joshi, the talented actor who portrays Krishna Devi Vajpayee in &TV’s Atal, recently visited Gwalior to mark the show’s first anniversary. This visit was more than a celebratory milestone—it was a poigant tribute to the late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a leader whose legacy continues to inspire millions.
For Neha, the journey was deeply personal. Determined to delve into Atal Ji’s roots, she explored Gwalior, his birthplace, immersing herself in the places and stories that shaped the extraordinary leader. Her visit became a meaningful homage to the man she portrays on screen.
A Historic Bench and Mangodas
A particularly poignant moment of her trip was sitting on a century-old bench and savoring Atal Ji’s favorite snack, mangodas (pakodas). This bench was no ordinary seat; it had once been a quiet retreat for Atal Ji, where he enjoyed the same simple yet delightful treat.
Reflecting on the moment, Neha Joshi aka Krishna Devi Vajpayee shares, “Sitting on this historic bench, eating his favourite pakodas, I felt a sense of surreal connection. It was not just a meal—it was a moment frozen in time. The bench held the stories of his humble beginnings, a silent witness to the simplicity and depth of Atal Ji’s life. It was more than emotional; it was transformative.”
Meeting the stall-keeper
The visit also led her to meet the stall-keeper who had served Atal Ji his beloved snack during his tenure as Prime Minister. The stall, unchanged over the years, still operates with the same reverence.
Neha recalls, “The stall owner served the pakodas first to God and then to a framed photograph of his mother, sitting beside Atal Ji. It was a tradition rooted in respect and gratitude, and I felt incredibly honoured to be the first customer of the day. It was a gesture so simple yet so profound, embodying the timeless charm of that era.”
Living history
Neha’s journey was not just about revisiting history but living it, “As an actor, I research and portray characters, but during this trip I lived his journey. Walking through the streets of Gwalior, visiting his favourite spots, and hearing stories about him brought me closer to understanding the man behind the leader. This experience has left an indelible mark on my heart and helped me bring this authenticity to my portrayal.”
Neha’s journey to Gwalior was not just a celebration of her role but a profound connection to the legacy of one of India’s most cherished leaders. Her visit illuminated the timeless simplicity and depth of Atal Ji’s life, inspiring her portrayal and leaving an everlasting impression on her spirit.
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