In an exclusive conversation with Hindustan Times, actor Pratibha Ranta delves into the nuances of her character, Jaya, in Kiran Rao's film, along with her personal takeaways.

Growing up in Shimla, Ranta found an unexpected resonance with Jaya, despite their divergent backgrounds. She admires Jaya's resilience and unwavering resolve, highlighting the relatability of her character's journey.

Ranta attributes her seamless portrayal of Jaya to her prior experience in television, which honed her skills and prepared her for this role. She acknowledges the meticulous scripting of Jaya's character, which facilitated her imaginative connection during auditions.

Despite the similarities she drew between herself and Jaya, Ranta meticulously transformed into her character, diligently working on mastering the Madhya Pradesh accent with a dialect coach.

Working alongside a talented cast and under Kiran Rao's direction, Ranta found the experience enriching, particularly appreciating Rao's clarity and respect for her actors' contributions.

Beyond her personal journey, Ranta recognizes the broader societal themes addressed in Laapataa Ladies, advocating for women's solidarity and empowerment. She emphasizes the importance of uplifting fellow women and fostering healthy competition rather than jealousy, echoing the film's message of appreciation and mutual support.