Bollywood actor Seema Biswas, known for her roles in Bandit Queen, Khamoshi the Musical, and Water, was groomed as an actor at the National School of Drama (NSD) Repertory Company in Delhi.
Renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur noticed her there and offered her the protagonist’s role in his film, Bandit Queen, which was based on the life of the late Phoolan Devi, a bandit-turned politician.
Her portrayal of Phoolan in the 1994 biographical won her the National Award in the Best Actress category and brought her instant recognition.
The 59-year-old, who was born in Assam, has an extensive experience of working in Bollywood. She has appeared in several Bollywood movies in a variety of roles. She has also contributed to web series like Code M (2020), The Family Man Season 2 (2021), and Human (2022).
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The recipient of Edinburg Festival’s Best Actress Award for her role in Sir Madam Sarpanch, is currently busy filming Sarfira, an upcoming movie which features several known actors like Radhika Madan, Paresh Rawal, Akshay Kumar, and Supriya, among others. Sarfira, which is produced by Abundantia Entertainment and directed by Sudha Kongara, will open nationwide on July 12.
Ahead of its release, the veteran actor took time out for an interview.
Excerpts:
Tell us about your role in Sarfira and your experience of working with Akshay Kumar?
I am playing the role of Akshay Kumar’s mother in Sarfira. I have prior experience of playing this kind of role. Akshay plays the title role, of a man who is committed to his work and wants to do it at any cost. His character portrays paagalpaan (desperation to the point of madness) to achieve his target. Akshay is very professional, a fine actor and serious in his work. He tries to make other actors feel comfortable. I really enjoyed working with him. I also enjoyed working with director Sudha Kongana Prasad, who is from south Indian film industry and is very professional. She also knows how to get work done from an actor.
How was the experience of shooting for Sarfira?
Shooting for Sarfira was done in Mumbai and also in Panchgani which has a lot of natural beauty. It is close to nature and is surrounded by mountains. I had to travel two hours to get to shooting and two hours to get back to the hotel. I stayed there for 20-25 days during the shooting of Sarfira and I loved working with all the leading actors. No doubt, it was exciting time for me.
Are you satisfied with your role in Sarfira?
As an actor, I am always yearning for more. When audience appreciates my work, it feels great. I always work hard. My focus is to entertain my audience who love my work. But I never think much before the film’s release and leave it to my audience. Were you hesitant before accepting the role in Bandit Queen? It is true that before accepting the lead role in Bandit Queen, I was a bit hesitant, I was very young at that time, not having had the experience. But my close friends suggested me to get the film script and read it. I did that and now I am happy that I did the role.
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How do you select films?
I always choose my characters based on my own understanding and imagination. Before accepting a role, I try to get the script from the director and read a lot to know the basic things about the role. That helps me a lot. I think Bollywood film industry is full of glamour but it’s not too easy to get into the industry. One needs to have passion and put in hard work, then only one can achieve success. I always focus on two things: One is passion for films, the other is doing work with complete honesty.
Any memories of Delhi?
I cannot forget Delhi. I used to walk a lot while going to Mandi House and Bengali Market. At that time there was no Delhi Metro, and it was easier. Going to Nathu’s Sweets to eat chholey bhature was fun and I enjoyed it a lot. I always loved Delhi food which is very satisfying. I miss it in Mumbai. Going for shopping in Janpath and meeting with close colleagues was also something I enjoyed.
Do you miss Delhi’s art festivals and theatre?
Yes. In Delhi, theatres like Kamani Auditorium, FICCI, LTG and National School of Drama lie quite close to each other. It was quite easy to go there, whereas in Mumbai there is the Prithvi Theatre while the others are too far away. Delhi is quite famous for cultural activities and theatre. Classical music festivals are etched in my memory.
How do you manage to remain low-key?
I always prefer to wear sunglasses when I go to public places. I tie my hair so tightly that I look different. Once a girl came to me. She tried to recognise me and asked, ‘Are you Seema Biswas’. I said, ‘No’.
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