Suzanne Bernert reflects on a decade of historical drama Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat; says ‘I simply couldn't control my emotions when I got selected for role of Queen Helena’ - Exclusive

Actress Suzanne Bernert is overwhelmed with emotions as she realizes that her show, Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat, has completed 10 years. The historical drama, which featured Siddharth Nigam and later Mohit Raina as Ashoka, first premiered on February 2, 2015. Bernert played the role of Rajmata Helena, earning widespread acclaim and award nominations for her performance.
Reflecting on her journey, Suzanne shared, “Even though it's been ten long years, I can never ever forget the excitement and the feeling of being part of something special.”

She reminisced about her selection for the role, recalling how she reached Rajasthan after multiple look tests and wardrobe trials. “When I finally heard that I was selected for the role of Queen Helena, I simply couldn't control my emotions and started crying as I hadn’t had work since 2011. I missed acting and being on a set so much!” she said.

Bernert described the rigorous process of filming, from enduring the scorching Rajasthan sun to the extensive shoots in Mumbai and Karjat. She spoke about the challenges of delivering lines in Sanskritised Hindi, the sleepless nights, and the thrill of a well-executed scene. “Let's also not forget the garam chai in the mornings, after walking on foot to the set. New scenes every day and me, walking to the big hall to shoot one more, clutching my notebook with Akhil's revisions and explanations, hearing his calming voice over the headset voicing my script.”

However, she also recounted the bittersweet moments, especially when it was time for her character, Queen Helena, to exit the show. “I shot my last scenes with a heavy heart and fast feet. I didn't want to face everyone cutting cake and bidding farewell. So I ran straight to my rock, Akhil, rushing him to be fast, pushing all samaan into the car, and jumping in. People even stopped the car to pull me out and take me back on set.”
The actress spoke candidly about the personal losses she has faced in recent years, including the passing of her beloved husband Akhil in September 2023, as well as the losses of Tunisha and Yogesh Mahajan. “People come and go. It was a glorious time. My tears are mixed with my smiles. Happy memories remain. The pain of these losses slowly fades but never ever goes fully away.”
In a heartfelt message to the audience and those who made CAS possible, she concluded, “All I can say is a big Thank You to everyone involved, and especially my audience, who kept me going on when I thought I couldn't do this!”
Suzanne Bernert’s journey with Chakravartin Ashoka Samrat remains an unforgettable chapter of her life, filled with passion, dedication, and heartfelt memories.