Interview: Raat Jawaan Hai Cast Discusses Why Friendships Transcend Gender

Raat Jawaan Hai is the latest series that delves into the realities of adulthood and parenthood. Instead of romanticising these experiences, the show provides a candid look at the complexities of these stages, revealing the challenges and nuances through the lens of friendship. The series is directed by Sumeet Vyas and penned by Khyati Anand Puthran and features a talented cast, including Barun Sobti, Anjali Anand, and Priya Bapat.

In an exclusive conversation with SheThePeople, 'Raat Jawaan Hai' cast Barun Sobti, Priya Bapat and Anjali Anand shared insights into their characters and how the series promises to resonate with viewers through its relatable themes and compelling storytelling.

Raat Jawaan Hai Cast Discusses How Their Characters Represent Untold Stories

The Value of Non-Traditional Gender Roles

In the series, the trio of friends have been close since childhood, and their friendship transcends gender and traditional gender roles, even as they hit parenthood. Priya reflected on how the essence of friendship goes beyond gender, “I think friendship is much more interesting when it transcends gender. There are valuable friendships, whether it’s between boys or girls, or a mix of both. But I really cherish these bonds that cross those boundaries."

Barun shared a similar sentiment, especially when it comes to parenthood. "I don't think there's a gender bias when it comes to parenting, or facing its challenges, at least not in the show. The challenges a parent faces are universal, societal pressure, how to raise a child, and what makes the ‘perfect’ child. These are issues both men and women navigate.”

Character Arcs and Personal Reflections

As Suman, Priya portrays a friend who frequently questions her place within the trio, feeling like an extra and thus putting in extra effort to maintain the friendship. This behaviour extends to her other relationships as well, including her parents and her in-laws. 

While Priya doesn’t personally relate to this self-doubt, she empathises with Suman's experience. "I’m not someone who self-doubts or hesitates much, but I understand where Suman is coming from. There have been times when I’ve found myself in a group feeling different—perhaps because I grew up differently or my conditioning was unique. Suman sometimes holds back to fit in, whereas I confront those feelings by filtering my words around others. I get why Suman avoids confrontation; she thinks, ‘Why stir things up when we’re only here for a short time?"

Barun's character, Avinash, is the spark in the group, encouraging everyone to rediscover the vibrant lives they’ve set aside since welcoming kids. Whether it’s going out to watch a movie, rekindling sex lives, or regaining confidence in bodies and careers, Avinash pushes the other two as well as himself to embrace their lives once again.

Barun shares this same perspective in real life, believing that life should extend beyond the boundaries of parenthood. He said, "People often think parenting is the end of everything, but it's not. You can balance things and still enjoy being a father, a friend, and sometimes even a recluse. Life doesn’t end when you have kids. The complexity of life is what the show is about—it’s about forming a human being while still maintaining your friendships and individuality."

Takeaways from the series

The actors agreed that the show’s biggest takeaway is the enduring nature of friendships, even as life evolves. Priya noted, without a second thought, "I think the main takeaway from the series is friendship. You’ll watch it with your whole heart, and by the end, I’m sure you’ll want to call up a friend you’ve missed or even sit down with them and rewatch it together. Life happens, but friendships remain.”

Barun took a moment to elaborate on his thoughts, saying, "The series' perspective is that once you become a parent, you're always going to be a parent, but friendships and other aspects of life don’t disappear, they evolve. The takeaway is to enjoy the masalas (flavours) being added into your life, for example, children in the series."

Check out our review of Raat Jawaan Hai here and watch it on Sony LIV!