Though the COVID-19 pandemic was undeniably one of the most challenging periods in modern history, it also spurred a significant transformation in global cinema, pushing filmmakers to explore new and authentic perspectives on storytelling.
Bollywood actress Manjari Fadnnis, who portrays Naina, a Kathak trainer in Zee5's 'Chalti Rahe Zindagi', finds the shift towards grounded narratives in digital cinema both invigorating and motivating. Reflecting on her role as Naina, she shares that immersing herself in the character’s emotional journey was deeply demanding yet unexpectedly rewarding, offering a sense of authenticity that felt more innate than in her previous roles. Known for her 2008 film 'Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na', Fadnnis maintains that cinema remains a vital space for exploring new dimensions while offering essential moments of laughter and escapism.
Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, the film intricately weaves the lives of several families through the lens of Krishna Bhagat, a local bread supplier played by Siddhanth Kapoor. The film explores hidden secrets, financial strains, and family dynamics as the pandemic unfolds, divided into three impactful phases.
In this insightful conversation with The WEEK, Manjari shares her thoughts on pandemic-era filmmaking, the evolution of storytelling, and more:
In times of crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, do you believe the essence of 'humanity' is challenged or made more evident? What have you observed personally and while shooting?
I believe the pandemic amplified the essence of 'humanity,' revealing acts of extraordinary selflessness and solidarity. This period highlighted the dedication of frontline workers and volunteers, and I also witnessed the artistic community rallying together through initiatives like the 'Artist for Artists' drive, which provided essential support to those in need. Although there were some troubling instances, such as black market dealings, they were exceptions rather than the norm. The broader narrative of humanity during the pandemic is one of resilience and compassion, echoed in our film through the character Arjun's line, 'Insaniyat zyadatar jaag hi jaati hai logon mein' (Humanity eventually finds a way in us).
Would you consider Naina to be your most intense role so far in terms of mental preparation, especially since it was filmed during the pandemic?
Not necessarily (smiles)... I found Naina’s role to be relatively straightforward in terms of mental preparation. The emotional depth required for her character came naturally to me. The most challenging aspect was mastering the Kathak dance sequences while conveying her emotional depth. I’d say that my roles in Barot House (2019) and The Freelancer (2023) demanded a more intense mental effort, as they involved constructing complex inner worlds and delving into unfamiliar psychological landscapes.
How challenging was it to portray the character’s sensitive emotional journey?
Portraying Naina’s emotional journey was both a profound challenge and a deeply fulfilling experience. The universality of her struggles allowed me to connect profoundly with her character, making the portrayal feel intuitive. I believe many people can see a part of themselves in Naina, which made the role particularly impactful for me.
Having worked with Aarti Bagdi, what did you find to be the most distinctive and impactful aspects of her directing and storytelling approach?
Collaborating with Aarti Bagdi for the second time has been a memorable experience. From our previous project, Khamakha, which won a Filmfare award, I’ve always admired the scripts she chooses. Each project is unique and heartwarming in its own way. One of the most distinctive aspects of Aarti’s directing and storytelling is her ability to deliver meaningful messages organically, without being preachy, while still being highly entertaining. Her projects always have their heart in the right place, which deeply resonates with viewers. Her films often evoke the classic 'feel-good' vibe reminiscent of Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s work—a genre many of us miss in today’s cinema.
How do you envision the digital landscape evolving over the next decade in terms of realistic and authentic narratives?
The shift towards realism and authenticity in digital storytelling is a promising development. We’re witnessing a trend where more films and series explore true-to-life stories, as seen in projects like Barot House. Audiences are increasingly open to unconventional narratives. However, big-budget entertainers and masala films will always hold their charm, as they provide essential escapism and joy. Balancing innovative, realistic storytelling with beloved entertainment genres will cater to diverse audience preferences.
How did the challenges of filming during the pandemic influence your approach to your craft and evolve your perspective?
The pandemic deeply impacted my approach to filmmaking, enhancing my appreciation for the collaborative nature of the craft. I vividly recall the day before filming a joyful Kathak dance sequence when I received the heartbreaking news of losing my 13-year-old dog, Pari. Despite my grief, I had to honor my commitment to the crew. After a brief moment of personal reflection, I pushed through, embodying the spirit of ‘The show must go on.’ This experience not only tested my resilience but also gave me a deeper understanding of the dedication required in our profession.