‘Nawaz is a fun person; unlike the intense roles he’s done’

Actor Rasika Dugal has steadily made a name for herself by starring in critically-acclaimed films such as Anwar (2007) and Qissa (2015). The 32-year-old is now all set to appear opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui in Nandita Das’s biopic on IndoPakistani author Saadat Hasan Manto. Excited about the film, she was pleasantly surprised by Nawaz’s carefree personality and director Nandita Das’s light-hearted ways on the sets of the film.

“He’s a very fun person, as opposed to how serious he comes across, because of the intense roles he has done. But I had a more fun time with Nandita, which I was not expecting!”

Despite her performances in her previous films receiving acclaim from everyone, Rasika prefers to remain grounded, and says she is always looking for the chance to learn from others.

“It’s always a treat to watch actors who I have respect for. What they do, how they prepare for their roles. However much I can catch on (and imbibe) is my aim. I am constantly in the process of reinventing myself. Inputs from everyone are welcome,” says Rasika, who was recently seen in the film Tu Hai Mera Sunday, which was appreciated by everyone for the story and the performances of the actors.

Rasika, who has done theatre, web-based short films, and television in the past, will be seen essaying the role of Safiah Manto, the eponymous protagonist’s wife, who is known to have stood with him through thick and thin, and supported him in all his endeavours.