From her captivating portrayals on television to her riveting performances on the silver screen and in the digital realm, Rasika Dugal has established herself as a versatile and compelling actress with standout roles in Qissa (2013), Manto (2018), and Mirzapur (2018).
In Qissa, she portrayed Kanwar Singh, a character grappling with gender identity issues, earning widespread acclaim from critics and audiences. In an interview with wknd., she discusses her journey as an actor, from humble beginnings to breakthrough roles spanning various genres and platforms.
Reflecting on her fleeting encounters with the city, Rasika expresses her desire to explore Dubai further, even considering skydiving on her next visit despite only experiencing it in transit or during film festivals.
Revisiting her formative years in Jamshedpur, Rasika reminisces about an idyllic childhood and her transition to studying in Delhi, Mumbai, and later at Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune. She shares insights into maintaining a sense of self amid the chaos of city life and the importance of disconnecting, particularly during shooting.
Rasika recalls her time at FTII, where she found inspiration in the rich library and learnt about cinema through artwork and film screenings, cherishing the freedom and opportunities for exploration as a student.
Transitioning from a mathematics degree to pursuing a career in media, Rasika reflects on the chance experiences and workshops that led her to discover her passion for acting, a decision she has never regretted.
Having worked alongside renowned actors like Irrfan Khan and Tisca Chopra, Rasika acknowledges the impact of working with them and the lessons she gleaned on being a good co-actor, fostering a collaborative and egalitarian environment.
She discusses the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, encompassing both parallel and mainstream productions, along with the impact of OTT platforms in providing opportunities for new talent and diverse storytelling.
Rasika shares her approach to navigating the additional aspects of the industry, emphasizing how embracing promotions and external experiences contributes to her growth as an artist.
Looking ahead, Rasika hints at upcoming projects, from a film with Gulshan Devaiah to a new series that showcases her in a bold, refreshing role, along with the much-anticipated release of Mirzapur Season 3 and her involvement in Delhi Crime Season 3.
