As a lifestyle expert with a keen eye for talent and a deep appreciation for the journey of artists, I must say Neena Gupta is a true gem in the Indian entertainment industry. Her versatility, resilience, and dedication to her craft are truly inspiring.
Neena Gupta is one of the most talented actresses in India who is all set for the release of her upcoming Malayalam web series, 1000 Babies. The show will premiere on Disney+ Hotstar on October 18 and is directed by Two Countries fame Najeem Koya. During an exclusive conversation with TopMob, Neena Gupta opened up about her role in the series, the joys of portraying diverse characters, her National Award win and more.
Can you tell us about the process of preparing for your debut series “1000 Babies” in Malayalam, and share some insights on the experience?
Before this, I’ve starred in two films in Malayalam and one in Odia, which means I’m accustomed to regional roles and can adapt to dialects fairly well. My background in earning an MPhil in Sanskrit has made learning new languages a breeze for me. Preparing for this role was similar to any other Hindi film character, and it was a fantastic experience as I got to collaborate with highly skilled professionals. The entire journey was fascinating and captivating due to the exceptional production quality and unique subject matter.
Q. Can you describe your character in the series as it looked quite tense in the trailer?
B. I can’t share too many details as the story is a mystery, but my character is a woman with some psychological complexities. Here’s a hint: it’s more than just normal.
Q. How was your experience working with director Najeem Koya?
I found it truly delightful as his overall idea and the ingenious design of the sets were captivating. He had created the set, and the way he would describe the scene to me was intriguing. It felt like we’d known each other previously. He was authentic and genuinely kind.
A. Did any specific scenes require extra effort or evoke strong emotions during filming? How did you manage these situations?
In every scene of the show, I found it demanding, both mentally and physically. If you look at the promotional materials, you’ll notice my expression, which was intense due to the heat. Wearing a sweater and long hair added to the difficulty. The role I portrayed was incredibly challenging because it was extremely frightening.
What’s your opinion on how portraying a complex character might influence your future career prospects? Are there similar roles you’re interested in taking on in the future?
I prefer switching up the characters I play, as I don’t want to be typecast. The role in Metro In Dino, which is upcoming, offers something fresh and exciting for me. Additionally, I played a character called ‘Baa’ in a film titled Baa, where I portrayed a Gujarati grandmother alongside a dog. Essentially, I enjoy the diversity that different roles bring to my acting career.
How would winning the National Award for your film, “Uunchai,” impact you on both a personal and professional level?
This honor holds significant value for two distinct reasons. Firstly, it’s a National Award, which means it is bestowed upon films, languages, and artists from every corner of India. It’s not confined to just Hindi cinema. Secondly, I find immense pride in this recognition due to Sooraj Barjatya. For the past three and a half decades, I have aspired to collaborate with him, and fortunately, that dream came true. To receive an award associated with his film is exceptionally meaningful for me.
Previously, you mentioned encountering difficulties landing jobs even with your proven skills and past achievements. How does it make you feel to see the industry acknowledging your work now?
I’m thrilled that at last, they are acknowledging me. It feels great to finally be offered substantial roles instead of just small, secondary parts. My work on television has been commendable, having appeared in around 150 series and even creating a show that earned me several awards.
It seems they used to look down upon television shows, considering films as superior to them. They would often dismiss someone who acted on TV by saying “Oh, she’s just a TV actor.” But times have changed, and streaming platforms like OTT have emerged. Nowadays, people seem to have forgotten about traditional television.
Q. Are there any other projects you’re currently working on or considering after 1000 Babies?
B. I’m set to begin work on Panchayat Season 4, and I’ve got another project – a movie in Canada. With any luck, more amazing chances like these will come my way in the future.
A. What’s it like for you to assume the role of a grandmother now that Masaba Gupta and Satyadeep have had their first child, a baby girl? Can you describe the feelings you experienced when you first held your granddaughter in your arms?
Initially, there are no feelings beyond concerns and anxiety. At this point, I find myself preoccupied with questions about Masaba’s wellbeing – whether she’s experiencing postpartum issues, if the baby is being adequately fed, and so on. It’s a time for making adjustments and assisting Masaba in adapting to her new daily routine.
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2024-10-17 15:22