Radhika Apte: Infidelity is layered, not as bad as people claim it to

Congratulations are in order for Radhika Apte. She has been garnering praise for her thrilling performance in Sujoy Ghosh's short film, 'Ahalya'. What's more? The actress has also bagged a film with Rajinikanth. In a freewheeling chat with TOI, Radhika talks about Ahalya, working with Soumitra and Nawaz and what infidelity really means to her...

First Badlapur and now Ahalya - would you say 2015 has been your year?
Many of my films are releasing this year and it's a good sign. Many films get delayed indefinitely and so I'm happy that my films are releasing as per schedule. There are many more projects coming up, so let's see.



How did Sujoy Ghosh approach you with the script of Ahalya? What was your reaction?
He called me and told me that he wanted to make this film for the fun of making it. I had always wanted to work with Sujoy and also liked the script that he had narrated. So, I instantly agreed to be a part of it. And the fact that I would get to work with Soumitra da again was like icing on the cake.

How was the experience of working with Soumitra Chatterjee and Tota Roy Chowdhury?
It was the first time that I was working with Tota. He is a really chilled out guy and I had fun shooting with him. Working with Soumitra da is a big deal. I have worked with him previously too, but that time I was very nervous and we did not interact much. He's a legend and yet the warmth and humility he has, is commendable. He greeted me with warmth and affection during the shoot of Ahalya and every time I work with him, I learn something.

Did you undergo any training to get your Bengali diction right?
Sujoy was very particular about the Bengali accent. So during dubbing he helped me with various words and their pronunciations. He was quite helpful.

What's your take on infidelity? It's hard to describe infidelity. I think it has many layers, and is not as bad as people claim it to be. When it comes to me, I have always been very committed, but I feel that the definition of infidelity varies from person to person.

Anurag Kashyap described you as one of the bravest actresses we have in the industry today. Do you agree?
(Laughs) Yes, I think I am very courageous and more than that I think I am very dedicated.

Manjhi is making headlines. How was the experience of working with Nawazuddin? Was it awkward shooting intimate scenes with him? Nawazuddin and I are two very dedicated people. And once you know your craft well and understand the importance of the scene, it does not remain awkward. Nawazuddin is an excellent actor and extremely passionate about his acting. So, there was no discomfort at all.

Do you think the recognition that you are getting now was long overdue?
Well, recognition is a part of my work and every actor needs recognition. But, I don't just work for that and neither am I desperate for recognition. Recognition has never been the driving force for me. If I like a script, I do it, without thinking about whether or not the character would fetch me any recognition or award. Of course, recognition is important as it helps you get better roles, you are approached by ace directors. I think I am really grateful to have worked with some of the most talented men in the industry.