Pratik Gandhi and
Patralekhaa have come together for the first time in the upcoming film Phule. The movie chronicles the life of Mahatma Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, a pioneering couple in 19th-century India who bravely fought against caste discrimination and advocated for women’s education. The two actors will share some intense and powerful moments on screen.
Discussing their on-screen chemistry, Pratik shared, “Our approach was quite simple. We read a lot of scenes together and rehearsed each one multiple times before filming. We’d also exchange our thoughts on the characters’ motivations, trying to understand why they would react a certain way. This constant exchange of ideas helped bring our on-screen partnership to life.”
The outdoor shoot also played a significant role in their bond. Pratik added, “We shot the film outside Mumbai, deep in the interiors of Maharashtra, which meant we spent a lot of time together. Living in the same place gave us ample opportunities to discuss the characters, the storyline, and so much more. This interaction really helped strengthen our connection.”
Stepping into the shoes of such a prominent social reformer, Pratik found the role both challenging and rewarding. He explained, “Portraying this character in a realistic way, without imposing judgment or bias, was tough. These are complex figures—Jyotirao and Savitribai were among India's first reformers. As I delved into their story, I realized that many of the issues they faced are still incredibly relevant today.”