Bollywood’s leading actress Alia Bhatt stars alongside one-film old Vedang Raina in Jigra, a story of sibling love directed by Vasan Bala. Ahead of the film’s October 11 release, Alia goes candid with producer Karan Johar… IBNS-TWF correspondent Souvik Ghosh brings excerpts of the conversation…
Q. How did motherhood in your personal life and sibling love in Jigra culminate?
A. When I signed Jigra, I think I was in my tigress mode (after becoming a mother). I was in my most protective mode. I would not allow anyone to come near Raha. It was that sort of an energy I possessed back then. This is why I say destiny has so much to play in life and in things going a certain way. Forget the fate of Jigra, I was amazed by the fact that the film came to me when I was going through similar emotions after Raha’s birth.Q. How much did motherhood change you as a person?
A. I don’t think I am the same person and also I don’t want to be. Life has so much more meaning to me now. I think actors can really be self-obsessed as they are constantly thinking about themselves. Now with another human being coming in, my own self took a backseat. My own self comes in and out centering on Raha. My focus in life right now is my daughter.
Q. How was working with Vasan Bala?
A. We were very much in sync even before the filming began. He could almost read my mind. I have a lot of respect for his process as well as fondness for his mind. I say ‘fondness’ because he is so open to different avenues. His instinct is also strong but discern about the idea flooding him. So the process was very exciting. It was never a one-note day. I also give credit to his wife, who is the editor. Their combination is magical.
Q. Vedang Raina was in awe of you for the kind of image you have as an artiste. How could you make it easy for him?
A. I am a kind soul (laughs). Honestly, we didn’t have much time to get into it. We had to sort of take the bull by its horns immediately. We had many things to do on day one, literally had multiple scenes. Vedang is fabulous. I think he doesn’t know how amazing he is. Vedang is instinctive yet has some sort of preparations. He reminds me a lot of Ranveer Singh. Despite being younger to me, Vedang’s soul is deep-rooted and centred which will take him very far when it comes to all the scenes of drama and stuff.Q. What one thing the audience is not expecting from Jigra going by the communications they have had so far from the makers?
A. I think the audacity.
Q. You are considered as one of the best contemporary actors of Bollywood. How do you shed the baggage on the shooting floor?
A. I don’t think I face the camera with that baggage. I feel a bit of pressure when a film’s release is due. It gives a feel of an upcoming report card to an artiste. But on set, it’s all about the acting process, being directed by the director, collaborating with the team and I just feel very grateful to be in that moment every day. I love that process of collaboration and especially with Vasan, I have had a blast because he is such a wonderful human being.(All images: Alia Bhatt Instagram handle)
IBNS-TWF