Raima also openly discussed about her film legacyThe evolving roles for women in the industry, and her personal thoughts MarriageAlso, find out why Raima is keen to be like her iconic grandmother Suchitra Senif the shoes are right Biopic Here are some excerpts…
How did you get attracted towards the role of Alia Basu in ‘Alia Basu Gayab Hai’?
I loved the story of Aliya Basu Gayab Hai. I loved the script and the screenplay and the way the dialogues were written. It is a film with only three characters, and it is very difficult to make a film with only three characters and hold the attention of the audience. So that was a challenging part. I mean, Vinay, Salim and I had to be completely prepared because we had to keep the audience engaged for one hour and forty-three minutes, which was tough because there was nothing to support us except the script, the performances and each other. So I think it was quite challenging.
Can you describe the experience of playing such an intense and challenging character?
It was a great experience because I did so many different things in this movie. We had a lot of action sequences, and it was very challenging because most of the time I had a ball gag in my mouth, which made it difficult to speak, shout and scream. After hours of wearing the ball gag, my mouth would hurt and sometimes it would even cut. It was interesting and challenging to work on, especially because throughout the movie, I’m really just tied to the bed. That’s all I can do, and I think that was the most challenging part.
How did you prepare for scenes that involved physical and emotional trauma?
For me, working closely with the director is very important. I see the director as the captain of the ship, who can make or break a role. If the director is good with actors, it’s ideal. If not, we do workshops and readings to understand their vision. I trust the director to push me to do my best, because it’s a give-and-take relationship between the actor and the director. So, yes, I always work closely with the director.
How was it working with Vinay Pathak and Salim Diwan, who play your kidnappers in the film?
I have worked with Vinay Pathak in a few films and Salim Devan in Bollywood Diaries, so I am familiar with both of them. We have an easy working relationship, we joke around and tease each other. This ease makes acting together easy, as we know each other’s strengths and quirks. Acting with such talented actors is both fun and rewarding.
Raima Sen on getting threat calls for working in ‘Maa Kali’: ‘I was reminded that I have to stay in Kolkata in future’
How did the film’s dark themes and intense scenes affect you personally while shooting?
When I prepare for a role, I give my 100 percent to it, but once the film is done, I leave everything behind. I don’t carry any burden with me. I do whatever I have to do during filming, but once the film is over, I completely detach myself and move on.
As someone with a rich legacy in the film industry, how do you handle the expectations that come with it?
When I first entered the film industry as the granddaughter of Sachitra Sen and daughter of Honamon Sen, there were a lot of expectations from me. However, with time, especially after films like Chokhir Bali, I have created my own identity. Now, I have a lot of expectations from myself with every film.
What changes have you noticed in the Hindi film industry over the years, especially with regard to the roles of women?
Yes, there have been significant changes in films with women being centered on more powerful roles. Women are now at par with men in the industry. We have come a long way in understanding that women also contribute to box office success and deserve equal recognition in many aspects.
Given the change in the way content is viewed these days, what kind of roles do you hope to play in the future?
With the rise of web shows and series, interesting content and diverse roles are emerging. I am excited to play a variety of characters in interesting scripts and stories.
Given your resemblance to your grandmother Suchitra Sen, would you like to play her character if a biopic is made on her?
If I get a good script, I would love to play Suchitra Sen’s role in her biopic.
For some, weddings are losing popularity, while others are busy having lavish destination weddings. What are your thoughts on this contradiction?
I think everyone has their own view of marriage. For me, if it happens, it happens, but I’m not actively looking for it. If it happens naturally, that’s great, but I don’t give it too much importance.
It’s important to be whole and complete in yourself, but if you had to describe your ideal partner, what qualities would you want them to have?
My ideal partner should have a sense of humor, be knowledgeable, intelligent, and charming. Most importantly, I would like him to be understanding, focusing on mental compatibility. I value a partner who is comfortable with himself, supports my growth, and allows both of us to grow together.
