Aahana Kumra | Ruskin Felix
Aahana Kumra started with theatre before making her debut in the limited edition series, Yudh. She moved on to the big screen, finding fame with Lipstick Under My Burkha (2016). Kumra, who stars in the recently released Netflix show, Betaal, has had a long journey as an actor. There have been struggles on the way, but she would not have it any other way.
Q/ What drew you to Betaal?
A/ It is a genre that I have never done before. I have never been part of a zombie-horror-thriller series and I think it is extremely fascinating that India has made its first. [Also] I have never played an army officer. And, I was thrilled to go through the training process. I was also excited to work with everyone in the show, especially with Suhani Kanwar (co-writer), who has also written Lipstick Under My Burkha.
Q/Do you like the horror genre in general?
A/I absolutely love horror…. I have watched a lot of horror films in theatres because I want the sound system, the darkness around you that is kind of eerie for a horror film. Zee Horror Show, I think, ruined my childhood—the signature tune still haunts me. Chucky from Child’s Play, [too]. I removed all the dolls from my room. Then, there was Evil Dead, The Exorcist, The Omen. Why am I even talking about these films? I am not going to sleep tonight (chuckles).
Q/You have had your share of struggles in the industry. Have things changed over the years?
A/Things have not really changed, but they have become streamlined. With over-the-top services coming in, things happen through auditions. That is how I got Betaal. People are ready to work with new talent…. It is a fantastic time for all content creators.
When I started working in this industry, I realised that there was so much struggle even for writers and directors…. But now, with the advent of OTT, so many new and young directors are getting their break.
I had my struggles, but they are something I am proud of. I am going to talk about it for years to come [in the hope] that some girl from Lucknow or Kanpur [gets inspired]. Even if one girl is able to make the kind of choice I have made, that, for me, will probably be the greatest compliment.
Q/What has been the effect of the lockdown?
A/It has affected me in a way that I do not have a social life. I was travelling a lot in the last few years and that has come to a standstill. I miss being in different places, eating different food, meeting different people. My life has been on sets. Man, I miss that. I miss the rehearsals, my co-actors, directors, producers, everyone. It feels like a hollow situation. But I have had two releases in this period, Marzi for Voot and Betaal, and I am really grateful for the love that I have got.