Sonali Bendre Opens Up About her Role in “Duplicate” and Career Reflections
Recently, Sonali Bendre shed light on her experience working on the Duplicate film, particularly her portrayal of a grey character that didn’t quite materialize as intended. One such film is “Duplicate,” a 1998 action-comedy directed by Mahesh Bhatt, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Juhi Chawla, and Sonali Bendre.
In an interview with India Today, Sonali Bendre reminisced about her role in “Duplicate” and expressed her disappointment with how her character evolved on screen. She revealed that initially, she was excited about the prospect of playing a grey character, finding it both challenging and intriguing. However, as filming progressed, Sonali felt that her character was reduced to a caricature rather than the nuanced portrayal she had envisioned.
What did Sonali Say?
“It was very exciting and challenging for me to portray that character,” Sonali shared. “We started preparing for the role in that way and also started shooting it accordingly, but slowly, as things moved, I felt I became a caricature and not really the grey character I was supposed to play.” This candid admission offers insight into the complexities of character development in the world of filmmaking, where initial intentions can sometimes diverge from the final product.
Reflecting on her experience with “Duplicate,” Sonali Bendre highlighted the importance of staying true to the essence of a character and the narrative trajectory. She expressed a sense of disillusionment with how the story veered off course, emphasizing the need for clarity and consistency in storytelling. “Every time a Duplicate song is played and people mention the film, the thing that I remember the most is the fact that how much a story can get derailed and how much you can start with something and where it goes,” Sonali remarked.
The actress’s introspection speaks to the challenges faced by artists in maintaining creative integrity amidst the demands of commercial cinema. As she navigates her career, Sonali Bendre remains committed to breaking free from stereotypes and exploring roles that defy categorization. “In my second innings, I don’t want to be slotted and boxed,” she asserted. “I want to do characters that break this stereotype.” This resolve to embrace diversity and complexity in her roles showcases Sonali’s dedication to her craft and her evolution as an artist.
“Duplicate” holds a special place in Bollywood history, remembered for its entertaining blend of action and comedy, as well as Shah Rukh Khan’s charismatic dual role. However, Sonali Bendre’s reflections offer a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in the filmmaking process, where artistic vision and commercial considerations often collide. As she prepares to embark on new projects, including her role in “The Broken News” season 2, audiences can anticipate witnessing Sonali’s talent and versatility in roles that challenge conventions and inspire audiences.
