Taapsee Pannu Reflects on Missing Big Hero Films and Embracing Her On-Screen Sensuality
Actor Taapsee Pannu, known for her versatile performances, recently opened up about her position in the film industry and her evolving craft. Speaking at the Sahitya Aaj Tak festival in Delhi, during a session titled Haseena Bemisaal, Taapsee delved into why she is rarely cast opposite major male stars and how she discovered her sensual side on-screen.
“People Assume I Won’t Do Big Hero Films”
Taapsee candidly shared that filmmakers and writers often exclude her from projects starring top male actors, believing she would decline such roles. She explained, “My managers often tell me that people don’t come to me with films featuring big heroes. They think, ye toh karegi nahi (she won’t do it). But it’s not true. When I do a film with a big hero, the pressure to make it work isn’t on me.”
Referencing her upcoming collaboration with Shah Rukh Khan in Dunki, directed by Rajkumar Hirani, she highlighted how such films allow her to step back from the intense pressure she usually faces. “In Dunki, it’s Hirani and SRK. I could relax and enjoy the process. Of course, I want substantial roles, but without the constant pressure of carrying the film’s success entirely on my shoulders,” she said.
Discovering Her Sensuality Through Haseen Dillruba
Taapsee reflected on her transformation as an actor and credited her role in Haseen Dillruba for helping her explore an untapped aspect of her on-screen persona. In the Netflix thriller, she played Rani, a character that allowed her to channel a sensuality she hadn’t portrayed before.
“Nobody had ever seen me in that light,” she admitted, adding, “It was a discovery for me. I never explored female sensuality on-screen before, and Haseen Dillruba changed that perception. Now, I understand it and can channel it.”
The actor joked that the film also made her comfortable wearing sarees, which she now associates with sensuality. However, she clarified that Rani’s poised and elegant sensuality is far removed from her real-life personality. “I’m raw, a bit brash, and not as clever as her,” she said with a laugh.
A Fierce New Role in Gandhaari
Taapsee is gearing up for her next film, Gandhaari, written and produced by Kanika Dhillon. Known for producing Do Patti starring Kriti Sanon, Dhillon’s new project casts Taapsee in an action-packed role as a fierce mother.
“I’ve always wanted to do action, but in a unique story. Gandhaari is about a mother’s revenge and her angst for her daughter,” Taapsee explained. “It’s not a spy film, but if people enjoy it, we might turn it into a series.”
More Read
Praising Shah Rukh Khan and Championing Women-Led Cinema
During the session, Taapsee also praised her Dunki co-star Shah Rukh Khan, calling him a “well-read” and “wholesome” superstar. She noted how working with him reaffirmed her admiration for his intellect and charisma.
The conversation also touched on her career journey, including her struggles, evolving preferences as an actor, and her commitment to championing women-led narratives in Indian cinema. From powerful dramas like Thappad to quirky thrillers like Haseen Dillruba, Taapsee has carved a niche for herself by taking on challenging roles that break stereotypes.
Balancing Art and Stardom
As Taapsee continues to navigate Bollywood, her focus remains on meaty roles over formulaic projects. She is clear about what she wants: substantial parts that challenge her as an actor, regardless of whether they are opposite big heroes.
Her journey highlights a refreshing approach to stardom in an industry often defined by its male leads. With Dunki on the horizon and Gandhaari promising a unique action-packed narrative, Taapsee Pannu is proving yet again that she is a force to be reckoned with in Indian cinema.
