Ashutosh Rana on narrating history in PrithviRaj Chauhan: 'Facts stay, storytelling evolves'

Every time we sit down for a conversation with Ashutosh Rana, we make sure to carry a Hindi-to-English dictionary to understand his shuddh language. However, the actor often kindly explains what he means, in detail. Set to feature in Chakravarti Samrat PrithviRaj Chauhan as a narrator, speaking from the perspective of the legendary warrior king’s friend-poet Chand Bardai, Rana’s knowledge of the characters goes back to seventh grade. “I had done a play in seventh grade called Prithviraj Ki Aankhen — that’s when I learnt about his story. I have also read about him and Chand Bardai through Amar Chitrakatha stories,” says the actor, renowned for his command of Hindi.

Although he has a script, it’s hardly surprising to learn that the actor often modifies his lines to ensure the language sounds more authentic. “I wouldn’t call it alteration, more like changing the language to something that is nicer to listen to. The thought is the same, but [I bring more] clarity and weight into the language used. The writers, director and producers were kind enough to give me the freedom to do that,” says Rana, who believes that the narrator plays a crucial role in any story. He not only “pulls the audience but also helps them connect to the story”. “It’s an attempt to make the audience view the world of the story through the lens of the sutradhar. It’s a role of great significance.”