The multi-hyphenate Chitrangada Satarupa is in for a memorable October. The Calcutta girl is all set to travel to the 27th Busan International Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, with her Hindi film Mariam by Arvind Pratap, for its world premiere. “A subtle take on the journey of a surrogate mother with a family of five people living in the heart of Mumbai city” — Mariam’s premise is intriguing. The young actress chatted with The Telegraph exclusively on what this milestone means for her.
Congratulations! Who told you about the Busan world premiere?
The director of the film, Arvind Pratap gave me this wonderful news. The film was selected for Asian cinema fund in July, which is an initiative by Busan International Film Festival and hence had a possibility of having its world premiere at the festival. But the possibility became a definite reality a few days ago when the festival announced its final line-up of films.
What was your first reaction?
I was so excited that I took some time to believe this. It felt unreal. I asked Arvind to forward the official mail to me because I wanted to see it with my own eyes. I know I sound crazy but life has been very uncertain so I was just pinching myself.
Who did you call first?
I informed ma (filmmaker Satarupa Sanyal) first because she will know and understand the value of this the most. She has been to so many festivals as a jury as well as a participant. I don’t have to explain to her how big this festival is and how big a deal this is. I knew she would feel the happiest. My success is her success and vice versa. Then I called Sambit (husband) like I do after every other situation. He is my best friend and my biggest support. He knows how hard I had worked on this film and how difficult the entire process was. There were times when I felt really vulnerable and exhausted. He lifted me up each and every time. I stayed calm and strong because Sambit and ma were just a call away.
What are you looking forward to the most besides the premiere of Mariam?
I am really looking forward to watching a lot of world cinema. So many interesting films are there in this year’s programme. I really don’t want to miss this opportunity. I would like to do some touristy stuff as well like doing a little day touring around Busan. I have heard the food is fabulous. So the Bengali foodie spirit of mine is already enthusiastic about this part of the trip.
What can you tell us about Mariam at this point?
It’s a subtle take on the journey of a surrogate mother with a family of five people living in the heart of Mumbai city and their many struggles post the first lockdown period.
I agreed to do this film because of the story and the tonality of the screenplay.... What attracted me was the subtle storytelling and looking at life as it is.
What does this mean for you at this point in your career?
It means a lot with a capital L. I have done so many experimental independent projects only because I am passionate about my craft. This choice involves a lot of risk and sacrifices. So many of my films are yet to see the light of the world and I am still waiting. Independent films have their own journeys and don’t always have happy endings. So when the toughest film of your life gets selected at one of the biggest festivals in the world it’s not just a win, it’s an extremely emotional moment as an artist. This sums up my journey till now. From theatre to OTT to now Busan, it’s an arc I never planned but love it with all my heart.
Who are you most excited to meet?
Definitely the audience there. It would be interesting to see their reactions and understand their perspective of Indian cinema. There is a special section for Tony Leung, renowned actor of one of my most favourite films In The Mood For Love. I am hoping he will be there and I will have the good fortune of at least saying ‘hello’.
