The most impactful performances are often the most subtle: Kaajal

Wed Jan 22 00:00:00 IST 2025

Kaajal Kunder has been cast opposite Sanchith Sanjeev (Kannada star Sudeep’s nephew) in his debut film. The film, tentatively titled Sanchii 01 is helmed by filmmakers Viveka , Karthik Gowda and Yogi G Raj. Known for strong roles in films like KTM, Bond Ravi and Pepe, Kaajal believes this project will allow her to further develop as a performer and reach a wider audience. Originally from Mumbai, Kaajal moved to Bengaluru in 2020 and has since embraced the city, Kannada cinema , and even learned to speak Kannada fluently. “Coming from a theatre background, I prioritise roles with strong acting potential, regardless of screen time. The character should contribute to the narrative. I crave versatility; I want to alternate between genres and explore out-ofthe-box roles,” she shares. Excerpts:

‘THE TEAM OF SANCHII 01 IS VERY DEDICATED’
Kaajal shares, “I met Viveka (director) sir a couple of months ago. Even when explaining scenes just for the audition, he took me through the minutest details of the scenes, including what music would be playing in the background in that particular scene. He is very thorough and detail-oriented. He is very ambitious, and during auditions, he fills us in on all the important details. Sanchith has been cordial and warm. He is equally passionate regarding films and his work. This film requires us to be comfortable with each other on screen, and the workshop is helping us get to know each other well.”

‘NEWCOMERS HAVE AN URGE TO PROVE THEMSELVES, NOW’
Kaajal has been a part of several experimental films that are mostly helmed by newcomers. “Newcomers have this urge to eagerly prove themselves. Not everyone in the industry has a backup, so they come with this now-or-never energy, where they try to give everything for their film. Even with time or budget constraints, they ensure that the project they deliver is topnotch, which makes working with them exciting and their filmmaking process a lot more interesting,” she says. ‘HOPING TO REACH MORE AUDIENCES WITH MY NEXT FILM’ Kaajal admits that as an introvert who doesn’t socialize much, she used to worry about recognition. “Yes, I am doing films, but not everyone watches every film. Also, in the industry, it is important to socialize. So, the Sanchii 01 team approaching me after watching Pepe was a big breakthrough for me. They have entrusted their faith in me, and I want to live up to it. Since this is a big film mounted on a big platform, I am hoping to reach more audiences with this film,” she says.