1 week Ago By Lipika Varma
Renowned actress Mrinal Kulkarni’s upcoming Hindi film Dhai-Aakhar, based on a popular novel, is set for release in cinemas on November 22. Directed by Praveen Arora and presented by J.P.
Agarwal, Dhai-Aakhar brings to life a powerful story from Hindi literature, tracing a woman's journey of self-discovery amid societal challenges. Kulkarni stars as Harshita, alongside respected actors Harish Khanna and Rohit Kokate, in a film that promises a thought-provoking narrative. In an exclusive interview with Lipika Varma, Kulkarni shares her insights on her role, the pressures of leading a film, and her views on womanhood and relationships.
Q: Do you feel that male-centric films tend to sell better than those centered on women? How do you approach the pressures of leading a film like Dhai-Aakhar? Kulkarni: I see this character as nothing short of a hero. I’m always searching for roles that not only entertain but also leave audiences with something meaningful. This film will encourage viewers to reflect on the story of a woman navigating an abusive relationship.
It's challenging for anyone, man or woman, to leave a toxic relationship and begin anew. This story is set in the 80s, and it captures a woman’s courage to walk away from an abusive relationship and start a new one, despite societal expectations. Dhai-Aakhar sends a message: if you’re unhappy in a relationship, you have the right to walk out.
Q: Do you believe men can also be deeply affected by abusive relationships? Kulkarni: Absolutely. Anyone in an abusive relationship should consider leaving it to find happiness. We only have this one life, and everyone deserves peace and joy.
Q: What are your thoughts on the recent societal shift toward open relationships and ‘situationships’? Kulkarni: There's no formula for changing someone’s mindset; each person has to feel it for themselves. Society has become more individualistic, and while open relationships and ‘situationships’ are trending, many people end up regretting them. I believe everyone reaches a point where they reflect on these choices.
Q: How do you balance your roles as a mother, wife, and actress? Kulkarni: Like all women, I face the ups and downs of balancing family and career. Women are natural multitaskers, often taking on various roles seamlessly. In one of my series, Paetheni, a woman is symbolized as a river that flows, collecting unwanted things along the way but moving forward.
Similarly, as women, we constantly strive to bring out the best in others and ourselves. Q: What do womanhood and motherhood mean to you? Kulkarni: Womanhood and motherhood are intertwined—once a mother, always a mother. As a woman and actor, I cherish my ability to adapt to diverse roles, whether portraying young or older characters, rural or urban, historical or contemporary.
Playing these roles, especially my character in Sonpari, has given me a deeper understanding of these themes. Q: Any plans to direct more films in the near future? Kulkarni: I’ve directed five films already, and my next project is an untitled Marathi film. I’m also planning a Hindi directorial soon.
I’ll keep you updated on that!.
