Scripts Choose You: Sadia on Playing Kashmiri Pandit, Muslim Woman
In the world of cinema, actors often take on roles that challenge them to step out of their comfort zones and experiment with different characters. In recent times, actress Sadia Kateeb has been making waves in the industry with her performances in films like ‘Shikara’ and ‘The Diplomat’. In an exclusive interview, Sadia opened up about her experiences of playing a Kashmiri Pandit in ‘Shikara’ and a burkha-clad Muslim woman in ‘The Diplomat’.
When asked about the process of preparing for her roles, Sadia said, “It’s majorly the script that chooses you. If the script resonates with you, you can’t help but get drawn to it.” Her words are a testament to the power of a well-crafted script, which can transport an actor to a different world and make them feel a deep connection to the character.
Sadia’s portrayal of a Kashmiri Pandit in ‘Shikara’ was widely praised for its authenticity and sensitivity. The film, directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, tells the story of a Kashmiri Pandit couple who are forced to flee their homeland during the Kashmiri Pandit exodus of 1990. Sadia’s character, a young Kashmiri Pandit woman, is a poignant reminder of the trauma and displacement that the community faced during that period.
When asked about the challenges she faced while playing the role, Sadia revealed that she was not concerned about the audience’s perception of her as a burkha-clad Muslim after portraying a Kashmiri Pandit. “Not something I sit and choose…it’s something that happens,” she added. Her words are a reminder that an actor’s work is not about personal identity or seeking validation, but about bringing a character to life in the most authentic way possible.
Sadia’s performance in ‘The Diplomat’ was equally impressive, as she played a burkha-clad Muslim woman who is struggling to find her place in a conservative society. The film, directed by Srijit Mukherji, explores themes of identity, faith, and social norms, and Sadia’s portrayal of the character was praised for its nuance and sensitivity.
In both films, Sadia’s performances were marked by a deep sense of empathy and understanding. She brought a level of authenticity to her characters that was remarkable, and her commitment to the roles was evident in every frame. When asked about her approach to playing these characters, Sadia said, “I try to be as honest as possible. I try to understand the story, the character, and the emotions behind it, and then I try to bring that to life on screen.”
Sadia’s journey as an actor has not been without its challenges. She has faced her fair share of rejections and setbacks, but she has never let that deter her from pursuing her passion. In an industry that is often driven by commercial success and box office numbers, Sadia’s commitment to her craft is a breath of fresh air. She is an actor who is driven by a desire to tell stories that need to be told, and to bring characters to life in the most authentic way possible.
In conclusion, Sadia’s performances in ‘Shikara’ and ‘The Diplomat’ are a testament to the power of a well-crafted script, and to the importance of empathy and understanding in acting. As an actor, Sadia has shown that she is willing to take on challenging roles and push herself to new heights, and her commitment to her craft is an inspiration to audiences everywhere.
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