Saiyami Kher's return to the International Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) with her film 'Pal Bhar Ke Liye' is a testament to her versatility and growth as an actor. In an exclusive interview, Kher opens up about her journey, the challenges of her role, and the impact of the film on her personal and professional life.
A Challenging Role and a Personal Journey
Kher's role in 'Pal Bhar Ke Liye' is a far cry from her previous work in 'Ghoomer'. The film, directed by debutant Vikram Phadnis, presents a complex and layered character that required a deep emotional investment from Kher. She describes the experience as a transformative one, both professionally and personally.
"Pal Bhar Ke Liye really moved me. I was very overwhelmed with the narration itself. The film is very emotional, and it made me slow down and think about my life personally and how things can change so quickly and how we take things for granted," she says. The role's emotional depth and the film's narrative arc had a profound effect on Kher, challenging her to explore new depths of her craft.
A Collaborative Set Experience
Working with Phadnis, a veteran fashion designer turned director, was a unique experience for Kher. She praises his systematic approach and attention to detail, which made the film-making process a well-organized and collaborative affair.
"In most of the films we do, schedules get haywire, edits take longer. But this is the most systematic film I have ever worked on with regards to everything, whether it's the timings on the film set or the smallest details. He was very sure of what he wanted. At the same time, he was very collaborative. There was a lot of give and take. It felt like a good day on the film set," Kher explains.
A Joyful Collaboration with Co-Stars
Kher's co-stars, Tahir Raj Bhasin and Vineet Kumar Singh, also played a significant role in the film's success. She describes her experience working with them as a joyful and collaborative one.
"I have been a big fan of Tahir and Vineet. Tahir and I really got along while doing workshops for that show. He is a very understated, quiet person, but he's got this mad sense of humour, and he is somebody who is very quiet, but once he opens up, he'll be a friend for a very longtime," Kher says. On Vineet, she adds, "Vineet and I have been friends for really long; we both worked for Anurag, sir. He does so much in his improvisation, and there's so much to learn from him as an actor."
A Special Return to IFFM
Kher's return to IFFM with 'Pal Bhar Ke Liye' holds a special place in her heart. The festival's opening film, 'Ghoomer', holds fond memories for her, and she is excited to see the public's reaction to her latest work.
"It's very exciting to go back. Ghoomer was the opening film, and it was very special. But it was all a blur that time because we did the screening and flew out the same night, because Ghoomer was releasing just three days later in India. But this time we are more relaxed about going in, watching other films, and attending the festival properly. It's not as stressful as it was last time," she says.
In conclusion, Saiyami Kher's journey with 'Pal Bhar Ke Liye' is a testament to her versatility and growth as an actor. The film's impact on her personal and professional life, the collaborative set experience, and the special return to IFFM make it a significant milestone in her career.
