Masumeh Makhija wants to be part of the kind of contentdriven films being made today

Actor Masumeh Makhija feels that this is an amazing time to be part of the film industry as a lot of interesting stories are being written. Not to forget the importance given to female artists, she also points out that special roles are being written for them and many female-fronted films have done well in recent times. Also, even smaller characters in such films are integral to the plot. “I really like the kind of movies that are being made now. Look at Queen (2014), Bareilly Ki Barfi (2017), Pad Man… such wonderful stories, and the characters are so interesting. As an artist, I would love to be a part of such films as there is scope for learning and growth. These films have also blurred the difference between art house and typical commercial cinema,” says Masumeh, who took a long gap after Saas Bahu Aur Sensex (2008).

Asked whether she plans to take up more work now, the actor replies, “Absolutely. The gap was because I was offered similar roles. But now I don’t want to lose out on good opportunities.”

Last seen in 3 Storeys, the actor says she accepted the film because her character “was different” and offered her scope to perform. “I connected with Varsha instantly. But she was a simple person and the image I have is glamorous. While rehearsing for the audition, I realised I need to look like Varsha too. So, I requested my maid to give me her sari. I wore that sari to the audition, and people looked at me and thought ‘kya haal ho gaya hai bechari ka, kaam nahi mila to kaise ban gayi’… Arjun (Mukerjee, director) couldn’t believe what he saw. But the audition broke the ice. I still remember how people cried along after my shot got over,” shares Masumeh.

PHOTO: SARANG GUPTA/HT Masumeh Makhija starred in the film 3 Storeys