Meeting Dame Dench …

BRITISH-INDIAN actress Fagun Thakrar, who shares the screen with actor Rohit Roy in the film Irah, plays the role of the

chief of the British Intelligence Agency.

The film delves into artificial intelligence and its ethical dilemmas.

Thakrar highlighted the gravity of her role, sharing that when a major crime involving artificial intelligence fell into the wrong hands and remained unsolved, she was called in to address the crisis.

Describing her role, she said: “It’s akin to being the head of the MI6, surrounded by numerous bodyguards. Playing this role is fantastic. It’s somewhat reminiscent of James Bond 007, but from the perspective of the top leader.”

When asked if her role resembled that of Judi Dench, who played the MI6 boss, Thakrar said: “In the film, any resemblance to the legend is limited to being a woman boss of the British Secret Service. But I have another connection with Dench. I honed my craft at one of the world’s most esteemed drama schools, the Royal Central

School of

Speech and Drama, an alma mater to the legendary Dame Judi Dench.”

Thakrar met Dench when she (Thakrar) was being honoured by the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) through their newcomers programme for international rising stars.

“Meeting Dame Judi Dench was a moment etched in grace and inspiration. Her presence, a testament to the power of enduring artistry, reminded me of the profound impact we can make through dedication and passion.

“It was a meeting of minds, a confluence of respect and admiration, that further ignited my commitment to excellence in my craft. Her words: ‘Continue to explore, dream and create,’ will forever resonate with me as I journey through the landscapes of creativity and storytelling.”