Shilpa Shetty on ‘Sukhee’: Reflecting Middle-Class Women’s Psyche
Shilpa Shetty Kundra’s latest film, ‘Sukhee,’ explores her versatility as an actor, seamlessly transitioning from a glamorous woman to an underappreciated middle-aged housewife. Directed by debutante Sonal Joshi, the film blends drama and comedy while delivering an emotional punch. In a pre-release interview, Shilpa Shetty discusses the film, her titular role, and how the character resonates with the psyche of middle-class married women and mothers.
Shilpa expresses a mix of emotions, including excitement, pride, and gratitude, about ‘Sukhee.’ She recounts an encounter with a radio jockey in Delhi who felt remorse for his treatment of his mother, realizing that the film had struck a chord. Shilpa believes in the power of films to convey important messages while entertaining audiences, a feat she believes ‘Sukhee’ accomplishes.
When asked why she accepted the role of Sukhee, Shilpa reflects on her belief that characters choose actors. Initially hesitant due to her state of mind, she ultimately decided to take on the role, recognizing the importance of telling Sukhee’s story, which reflects the lives of women in India, regardless of their social strata. Shilpa emphasizes the film’s potential to inspire self-love and self-respect in women, promoting happiness within families.
Shilpa’s school days were marked by an average academic performance and close friendships. She highlights the value of having friends who know the real you and mentions revisiting her school, which brought a different smile to her face.
The interview also delves into a challenging sequence in the film where Shilpa’s character uses abusive language, a departure from her real-life persona. Shilpa reveals her discomfort with the scene but understands its necessity for the character’s authenticity.
Regarding the film’s concept of ‘pariah’ (carefree), Shilpa clarifies that it’s about not letting others’ opinions dictate one’s decisions. ‘Sukhee’ aims to resonate with many women who can relate to the character’s struggles and hopes to empower them to find their inner strength.
Re-reported from the article originally published in The Money Control
