Bridgerton: Was Kate Sharma inspired by an Indian queen? Character details, explored

Bridgerton takes us to a world of colorful characters in the Regency era with different storylines that make it hard not to get absorbed. The arrival of Kate Sharma in Season 2 was absolutely refreshing. Her character became a fan favorite in no time. The reason behind that is her intelligence and confidence. Her unique background also plays a key role in making her one of the most popular characters of the show. Bridgerton is known to explore complex social dynamics. Kate’s introduction to the story adds all the more richness to the well-developed plot.

Kate Sharma is portrayed as a strong and independent woman making her way through the strict rules of London society. She challenges expectations but also doesn't forget to show empathy to others. Her qualities make her a unique character in the Netflix show. Fans have been curious about her roots ever since she appeared. Many have wondered if her character was inspired by real historical figures. Her personality and cultural background give the show a more inclusive feel.

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Bridgerton makes Kate Sharma a layered character by presenting her struggles and growth. She is not in the story just as a romantic interest of one of the Bridgerton men, but also has her own story. She is courageous when it comes to expressing her feelings. This makes her relatable to the viewers.

Bridgerton: Kate Sharma is inspired by an Indian queen

Kate Sharma’s character in Bridgerton is inspired by a historical Indian figure known as Baiza Bai. The creators have mentioned in interviews that they drew inspiration from her strength, intelligence, and influential presence. Baiza Bai was a prominent woman in Indian history. She was known for figuring her own way out through social hierarchies and making bold decisions. In an interview with Teen Vogue, creator Chris Van Dusen shared:

"We actually used a figure named Baiza Bai as our model. She was a ruler at the time, she was this queen who was this adept horse rider, she sat astride like the men did, never side saddle, she was this masterful swordswoman and also someone who could handle a firearm. We thought about what a figure like that would mean to a young girl growing up alongside her and with the help of Dr. Atwal, we started to build Kate Sharma’s backstory from there, as a way to understand her affinity for horse riding or the fact that she can shoot just as well as Anthony when she comes to London. All of that was really instrumental in the early stages of building the character that we eventually come to meet as Kate Sharma, Kathani Sharma."

He had also shared:

"In our story, Kate and Edwina’s father worked as a respected secretary for a royal court back in Bombay. And so Kate and Edwina grew up in this courtly environment amongst royals who, in our minds, were a bit more progressive."

He continued:

"This was a family who traveled many places in India. Kate was brought up by an English mother, Lady Mary, who grew up in the Ton society of London, who then went back with the love of her life to India. So it’s a combination of cultures there, absolutely."

In the show, Kate’s personality reflects qualities associated with Baiza Bai, who was the wife of Daulat Rao Shinde, the ruler of Gwalior in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Kate is assertive but graceful. She is confident as well as thoughtful. Bridgerton made Kate Sharma even more authentic by adding this connection and giving her cultural roots. Her role challenges stereotypes of women in period dramas. In doing so, Bridgerton gives us a heroine who is relatable as well as inspiring.

Stay tuned to Soap Central for more updates and detailed coverage.

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