In the Disney+Hotstar series Showtime created by Sumit Roy (screenplay writer of Rocky Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Gehraiyaan), Mahima Makwana plays Mahika Nandy, a budding entertainment reporter who, through a sudden turn of events, becomes the owner of one of the biggest film production houses in the country. The Telegraph Online caught up with Mahima on her transition from TV to web shows and her experience of working with Naseeruddin Shah, Emraan Hashmi and Rajeev Khandelwal in the show produced by Karan Johar’s Dharmatic Entertainment.

How has it been for you since Showtime started streaming on Disney+ Hotstar?

Mahima Makwana: It has been both exhilarating and overwhelming. I have received some heartfelt feedback. It’s been incredible. People have said some of the sweetest things to me. However, this has added extra pressure to raise the bar.

Are there any similarities between Mahima Makwana and your character Mahika Nandy?

Mahima Makwana: Mahima and Mahika are similar in terms of their determination and drive. We both are ambitious and focused and vulnerability is our strength. However, Mahika’s journey in Showtime is unique and different from Mahima’s real-life experiences.

What were your learnings from your scenes with Naseeruddin Shah, Emraan Hashmi and Rajeev Khandelwal?

Mahima Makwana: Working with them was a learning experience. From Naseeruddin Shah sir, I learnt about dedication and the importance of staying true to the character. His aura is something else. Emraan Hashmi sir taught me about spontaneity and adding depth to my performance. Doing scenes with him was like playing chess. He has allowed and given me the freedom to delve deep and improvise. Rajeev Khandelwal sir’s professionalism and focus have been inspiring.

In Showtime, you play one of the leads. How will you capitalise on it?

Mahima Makwana: It has been a rewarding experience. I plan to capitalise on it by continuing to work hard and choosing roles that challenge me as an actor. I also hope that Showtime’s success opens up more opportunities for me in the industry because there’s always that one project that opens up several avenues for an actor and I think this has been that project in my case, after Antim.

What has been your biggest takeaway from working on Showtime?

Mahima Makwana: The need to remain loyal to oneself and speaking up against injustice has been the most important lesson I learnt from Showtime. The show’s discussion on nepotism has made me more conscious of the challenges faced by outsiders in the profession. Apart from that, working on this project has been a once-in-a-lifetime kind of opportunity. Not everyone gets a chance to share screen space with legendary actors like Naseeruddin Shah sir and I consider myself very lucky.

Since Showtime is under the Dharmatic Entertainment banner, was there any exchange with Karan Johar?

Mahima Makwana: Working with Dharmatic has been a fantastic experience. The only time I met Karan Johar was during the show’s trailer launch and at the screening. He has been extremely warm, kind and supportive towards me. I am grateful to him as well as my directors for giving me such an incredible and challenging opportunity.

How has the transition from TV shows to films to web shows been? What’s the reaction of your loyal TV fans?

Mahima Makwana: The transition from TV shows to films to web shows has been a fulfilling journey. While the medium may differ, my commitment to delivering quality performances remains the same. My loyal TV fans have been incredibly supportive and have embraced my work.

As a budding actress, how do you keep yourself motivated in this competitive industry?

Mahima Makwana: I always have to remind myself that my individuality is what makes me strong in a very competitive field. My priorities include developing my trade, upholding my moral principles and having faith in my skills. I keep myself motivated as an actor by establishing objectives and pushing myself all the time. Moreover, my authenticity and honesty towards my craft helps me hold myself stronger.

What’s next for you after Tumsa Na Ho Payega and Showtime?

Mahima Makwana: Next, I will be seen in a genre that I have never explored before.