How did you land the role of Sonia Gandhi?
I saw Anupam Kher’s Twitter handle releasing the first look of the movie via a poster depicting him as Manmohan Singh. I did everything possible to gain the filmmaker’s attention via email, Twitter, Facebook and through Bombay Casting, but there was silence. I was on a holiday in Germany at my parents’ house when my management team informed me that the makers of the movie would like me to audition. They sent me reference videos on which I based my audition video. With the reading glasses of my dad, the shawl of my mother, and my husband Akhil Mishra behind the camera, we shot the audition tape that was liked. That was that. Later, I was told that they had started an audition process for an Italian actress. But after seeing my audition, they stopped looking [smiles].
How did you prepare for the role? Did you read the book?
Director Vijay Gutte asked me not to read the book, [and] instead [to] rely on videos and other research material the production house provided. That was the ammunition for walk, stare, look and nuances.... I found it strange though. But once I started shooting, I understood that as an actor I need to be a blank canvas for the director to paint on.
You have been in India for a while now. How well aware are you of Indian politics?
I am a completely non-political person.
What is your opinion about Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh?
Reading the script, I came to understand that both are very strong personalities. Manmohan Singh is not that vocal though, and Gandhi also does not speak that much. I believe both worked very hard for the progress of India.
In terms of political happenings, which moments in the film surprised you?
Gandhi not accepting the prime minister’s post even though she was the popular choice, not only of the Congress, but also of the allies. It was a big sacrifice on her part that really took me by surprise.
