'Niharika' helped me in achieving self-growth: Actor Anuradha Mukherjee

Q. How does it feel when a film, which is shot over a considerably long period of time, releases amid anticipation?

A. Indrasis-da made a film of a different taste, like every time. Now it depends on the audience whether they will accept it or not. It is not at all dependent on us anymore. Of course we have an investment and hard work into the film but we can only hope for the success. Since the film is in Bengali, we can expect people over here watching it. Though the international recognitions and acceptances matter, I would want people in Kolkata to watch it in big numbers.

Q. How much 'Niharika' prompted you to introspect?

A. It happens in every film actually. I am not sure about introspection but of course I have experienced self-growth. I never acted out of thinking. I act instinctively. So a self-growth is palpable working with Indrasis-da. For me, it is within the process. I perform on the basis of my feeling on a particular moment. I could relate to the struggle and life of Deepa partially. I am curious to know how Gen Z reacts to the film.

Q. How could you connect to the grey shades of Deepa?

A. I feel I am over-emotional as a person. Maybe artists and creative people tend to become over-emotional. I am a very introvert. I am not able to express myself much and have pent-up feelings. I don't want to be a burden on anyone and want my close people to understand me. I could relate to Deepa from that angle as she is also an extremely introvert. No one's character is black and white. Deepa never got a chance to realise this in her growing years. From that angle, I am a bit different. I had ample time to discover myself.

Q. Your family was not supportive of you joining films. How are their reactions to your work now?

A. I was a rebel from childhood. I never intended to join films in a planned way. I turned rebel when I was asked not to join the profession. I wanted to explore a new avenue. I never wanted to do a normal office job. I feel suffocated being imposed by someone or something. Moreover, I am curious by nature. Now honestly, it doesn't matter what my family thinks. I have proved myself so my family's acceptance is no more important. I didn't get the support from my family when it was needed.

Q. Are you still pursuing dance? Do you have an ambition to work in a hardcore commercial film?

A. I love dance, be it classical or western. In Kolkata, there is a preference for a typical look for cast. I would definitely work on such a commercial film if makers in Kolkata walk out of the bracket of typical characteristics when it comes to actors for a commercial film. I don't want to restrict myself to any particular zone. But I need to get that opportunity first.

(Photos of Anuradha Mukherjee: Avishek Mitra/IBNS)