Gujarati film Maaran, starring Yash Soni and Deeksha Joshi, has earned national recognition after winning the National Award for Best Gujarati Feature Film. Directed by Abhishek Jain, the film explores the disturbing themes of gender-based violence and trafficking. In an exclusive conversation with mid-day, Soni opened up about playing a challenging character, his preparation process and the surprise of the National Award.

Yash Soni talks about his character in Maaran

Soni said he has consciously tried to avoid repetition in his career. “I always wanted to play different characters. And this is my comfort zone and I want to do such kind of films. And I want to explore every different kind of characters,” he said. He added that watching accomplished actors experiment with their roles motivates him to push himself. “When you watch movies and watch great actors doing such great characters, and also experimenting with their characters, so it also kind of feels that, you know, I also want to explore as an actor.”