Rajit Kapoor and Ashish Vidyarthi, who feature in Srijit Mukherji's Partition drama 'Begum Jaan' discuss their ruthless officer roles, experience of working with the National Award-winning director and overcoming weather challenges during shoot in Jharkhand
Ashish Vidyarthi and (right) Rajit Kapoor in a still from Begum Jaan
Ashish Vidyarthi and (right) Rajit Kapoor in a still from Begum Jaan
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Ashish Vidyarthi
You seem to be choosy about films these days...
I have done 200 films in 12 languages and am in my 25th year as an actor. We have to keep working and make our films and roles look interesting. As an actor, you are only as good as your last take. Awards and honours are great and I am privileged and grateful to receive them, but they are fantastic material for obituaries. I cannot quote my achievements or rest on my laurels, and so chose a film like Begum Jaan.
What is your character all about?
My character represents the set of Indian Civil Servants, who had to ensure execution of the Line of Partition at that time.
What convinced you to take up the film?
The story. We have read so much about the Partition, but haven't really heard personal stories and how The Radcliff Line affected people. This is the story of those unknown people who are not part of any history.
Are you suggesting it is based on a true story?
No, but it's inspired by true incidents. There were houses between the India-Pakistan border. Those who decided to draw the line had no idea of our country's geography.
How was the shooting experience in Jharkhand?
It is a beautiful place. We shot in June-July when the weather was unpredictable. We'd go on set and as per weather forecast, Srijit would decide what scene to shoot. We encountered cyclone, heavy rain, storms, etc., but the passionate team kept going and we completed the film on schedule.
Rajit Kapoor
Tell us about your role.
I play an officer whose job it is to demarcate the Line of Partition, or the Radcliffe Line. Since I play a Muslim character, he's a representative of the Muslim League. Along with his Hindu colleagues, he has to ensure the Line is drawn up and executed.
What drew you to the film?
It has lots of drama. I have earlier worked with director Srijit Mukherji, who has won National Awards. I had the trust that one needs in their director. Besides, this film marks my return to Vishesh Films after Ghulam, which was almost 20 years ago. Begum Jaan has a stellar ensemble cast and is based on sex workers, who are being forced to leave their home (brothel) due to Partition. It's all about their fight to survive, to save their home.
What, according to you, is Srijit's strength as director?
He's truly the captain of the ship. We faced tremendous adversity in terms of weather and physical hardships, but finished shooting in 32 days. He is focussed and extremely well prepared.
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