The film Mahananda, which releases today in theatres, tells the story of an author called Mahananda (played by Gargee Roychowdhury), whose personality bears similarities with the life and persona of Mahasweta Devi. A Telegraph chat with Gargee.
With Mahananda releasing today, what are your thoughts right now?
As we grow, we tend to take on more responsibilities. My director Arindam Sil put a huge responsibility on my shoulders. And he helped and guided me throughout the journey. But when I was in front of the camera, it was only me. If you ask me about my feelings right now, I would say that I feel blank. Now I just want my audience to watch the film. I’m waiting for their reactions. I hope that they’ll accept Mahananda and start loving her.
Is it one of the most important films of your career?
I have been an ardent reader of her works. When I came to know about her life from a person who was very close to her, I was fascinated. What a charismatic life. It was so cinematic. From that day onwards my dream was to do a film on her. I chased my dream and I realised it. Yes, this film is very special.
Mahananda is inspired by the life and works of Mahasweta Devi. The backbone of the film is Mahananda’s principles. In an earlier interview Arindam Sil had said that she has led her life only through principles, and this becomes so important when it is put in the context of today’s times. What else can the audience expect from the film?
The acting. Every single person is outstanding. The look of the characters and the cinematic treatment. It is a visual treat. The film has such strong dialogues. I was so careful while delivering it.
Why do you feel the film is relevant now?
Even the future generations would love to watch a film on the life and ideology of a woman named Mahasweta. The film is for all times. I have many friends from the young generation who know so much about Mahasweta Devi and they are really looking forward to watching the film.
How did you prepare to play Mahananda?
My director and producer believed in me. I could deliver my best because I was in a comfort zone, where I was inspired. I was not judged. It was very important for me to be in the comfort zone. We discussed the script for two-three years. One day Arindam called and told me about a new scene. He read out a portion of the scene. I said, ‘Then.’ He said, ‘Yes. This is the word I wanted to hear from you. It has sparked your inquisitiveness. If you feel curious, the audience will feel the same.’
I remember the day I got the sari... it was an old sari. She would always wear old, crumpled saris. The spectacles I wear in Mahananda are a symbol of that period. My hair was done in a specific way and Somnath Kundu created the make-up. I was very obedient throughout the time. I don’t usually look at the monitor. But Arindam called me one day and asked me to look at the monitor. I knew that 60 per cent of the work was done. After that it was a challenge for me to become Mahananda. To get under the skin of the character. Every shot and moment was challenging, and I rose to the challenge.
How was your shooting experience?
It was an emotional journey. I am thankful to all the actors. I could become Mahananda because of their contribution too. It was wonderful to work with the entire team. My synergy was brilliant with my co-actors, like Ishaa Saha and Arna Mukherjee. I remember the last day of shoot when Arindam said that it was a wrap. I felt an uneasiness... the shoot was over but I knew that I was in love with the character.
Can you identify with Mahananda?
Yes, sometimes and somewhere. We must talk about this after you have watched the film!
How was it like being directed by Arindam Sil?
It was aesthetically very rich. Arindam is open to suggestions. He is also extremely protective about his actors.
Is Mahananda more than a film for you?
Yes, it is my dream project, which became a reality with the help of my director. Also, I would like to thank Firdausul Hasan and Prabal Halder from Friends Communication.
How has Mahasweta Devi’s stories influenced you?
I have come to know and understand her through her stories. Her charisma and larger-than-life personality influenced me. She was very tough from the outside but very warm and soft on the inside and Mahananda is absolutely like that. If you love someone, you have every right to scold that person also.
Did you ever get to meet her?
I did not. But I got to know her more intensely through people who were very close to her.
Pictures: B. Halder
Outfits: Abhishek Dutta
Location: JW Marriott Kolkata