'Audiences appreciate women in bold roles'

Agra, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Kanu Behl, recently premiered at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival 2023 in the Directors’ Fortnight section — and won a five-minute standing ovation! Ruhani Sharma, who was part of the cast, says she never expected that the film would get such a great reception.
“The film going to Cannes was itself a matter of pride. And to get such a resounding reception was overwhelming,” shares an excited Ruhani.
Her debut Telugu film Chi Law Sow won a National Award (Best Original Screenplay) and Agra was her Hindi debut film. “How many actors are blessed to get this? It’s a double delight,” she says.

Agra explores a family’s interpersonal dynamics in the context of sexual relationships and more. It talks about the challenges faced by young Indians who are experimental in their choices but are bound by traditional values.
Apparently, Ruhani auditioned three times for her role as a young girl in Agra.  She first auditioned four years ago, then did so again a year later. The final time was a week after they called her for a day’s workshop. “Kanu’s methods of auditioning are very different. When I went for the workshop, I didn’t know that I was selected,” she says.

Adding that the team later revealed that she was already finalised for the part. Ruhani shares that she signed on for the film only for the experience of working with Kanu and to have a better understanding of the craft. She describes the experience as ‘insightful.’ “I am glad that my purpose was served,” she says, adding, “I spent two months on workshops, so my preparation time was greater than the shooting schedule.”

She says working for Agra changed the way she looks at script and films. It also changed her choices and the way she approaches her characters. “Prepping and shooting for my character, Mala, was a learning experience. It was very intense and at times emotionally draining. Since the plot is set in Agra, I spent considerable time understanding the lives of the people there,” shares the actress.

Ruhani’s role also has several bold scenes. She says she did not have any qualms about shooting intimate scenes. “I was initially apprehensive whether I could pull it off. But Kanu convinced me and told me that the scenes would be aesthetically shot. In fact, those intimate scenes drive the narrative,” she explains, adding that people are now accepting such roles from women.
“The times and mindsets of people have changed. They are receptive of content that’s engaging. People are appreciating women in bold roles too,” she comments.