Our aim is to raise awareness, not mock transgenders: Rubina

TV actress Rubina Dilaik says the aim of her show "Shakti - Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki", in which she plays a transgender, is to change the way people perceive the community and raise awareness about the issues they face.
The 27-year-old actress, who essays the role of Soumaya in Colors TV show, says the makers always had a clear picture in their mind about the way the character would be portrayed.
"In society there is discrimination with the community. The only effort we are making is to bring about the change in the thought process of our audience. Television is the most influential medium and if we can influence our audience by taking this small step, the risk is worth it," Rubina told PTI.

The "Chhoti Bahu" star said the team was aware about the sensitivity of the subject and particular about not mocking the community.
"The care and the attention that was given to the sensitivity of the topic and collective responsibility we had towards it kept us aware to not cross the thin line of mocking anybody's sentiment. Talking about such topics has more cons than pros, but everything is handled delicately."
Rubina feels the preconceived notions people have about the transgenders define how they treat them.

She says the first person she consulted before giving her nod to the project was her actor boyfriend Abhinav Shukla and he is happy with the reaction the show is getting.

"The first person I discussed the role with was Abhinav. And I shared my apprehension with him. Without giving a second thought he asked me to go for it.
"Abhinav had that confidence me. Knowing me and my sincerity towards my job, he was always sure of me. He just asked me to focus. He is happy, appreciative and always supportive," she said.
The actress also discussed about the role with her close friends Keerti and Sharad Kelkar and is thankful to them for the support.
Rubina did not tell her mother about the suspense behind her role as she was not sure about the reaction she would get.

However, the actress says her mother is proud of her choice and has liked the way she is portraying the character.
"My mom was pretty overwhelmed when the entire concept was disclosed. She was a bit disheartened as I did not tell her, but the fact that it turned out well, made her proud of me."
The actress said she believes in picking up roles which give her a chance to grow and is proud of taking the risk.
"As an actor I have always welcomed the opportunity to evolve. I have always taken up projects which give me a scope to grow and I have seen that growth me.