The life in her voice, those shinny but sunken eyes, the briskness in her ‘slow’ movement, and the zest to keep rolling, make theatre artiste Nirmal Rishi someone to watch out for in the Punjabi film industry.
With filmmakers calling her as the ‘must-have’ for a Punjabi film, especially after her performances in Angrej, Love Punjab and recently Nikka Zaildar, Nirmal finds herself in the busiest, adventurous and the most beautiful phase of her life. An inspiration for many, she throws her head back in laughter one time too many during the conversation.
You are working with the new, young and absolutely different breed of Punjabi film-makers?
And I don’t feel old even for a moment. I am working with such young actors, directors, some are so new. The whole experience feels new yet familiar.
From Chann Pardesi to Nikka Zaildar, has the world changed around you or have you changed?
(Laughs) Whether it was Chann Pardesi or Nikka Zaildar now, I have always felt passionate about my work. There is indeed a world of difference, but it is always better to change with time. New is not bad!
New is good especially when scriptwriters are writing roles keeping you in mind?
I am humbled by this. I have never asked anyone to give me work in a film. At the same time, I have always been in touch with Punjabi cinema, done all kinds of roles. Even now, when a director expresses desire to cast me for a film, I can’t help but thank god.
But what about the fear of being typecast, especially when you know you can’t really experiment?
I felt slightly sad and insecure the day I retired as the head of the department of physical education from the college, thinking how I would sustain myself. But, from the very next day I started getting calls for films, so I want to say that fear is just in the mind. I agree that I could get typecast. As an actor, however, I try to bring newness in every role. In my next Punjabi film, I am speaking very less.
Theatre and films, two most creative fields! Is there anything left to do?
Lots. To begin with, I should start by watching my own films first. And yes, I want to direct more plays and keep living life as long as I have health by my side.
as published on The Tribune
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