Sanya Malhotra's film Mrs has received enthusiastic acclaim from both audiences and critics since its release on ZEE5 on February 7. Directed by Arati Kadav, this film is a Hindi adaptation of the Malayalam movie The Great Indian Kitchen. In the film, Sanya portrays Richa, an aspiring dancer who finds herself married into a patriarchal household where her role is confined to domestic duties. Ultimately, she rises against her subjugation.

In a recent interview with, actor Kanwaljit Singh, who plays Richa's patriarchal father-in-law, Ashwin Kumar, discussed the film's impact, his family's response, and his feelings of needing to apologize to Sanya after viewing the film. (Excerpts)

‘He is the opposite of my true self’  

When inquired if his family had seen the film, the actor responded, “Yes! Both my sons have seen it! My wife has also watched it. They fully understand that this character is the opposite of who I am. Naturally, they were somewhat taken aback. However, there is nothing in this role that I feel ashamed of. I embrace every role I undertake without regret. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, particularly because it was directed by a woman, who infused the film with a depth of nuance, sensibility, and sensitivity that I believe a male director might not have achieved.”

‘Hum log sudhrenge nahi!’

At the conclusion of the film, Richa's decisive act of leaving her home permanently struck a chord with audiences. The actor shared his thoughts upon encountering that particular scene in the script, stating: “We were quite eager to bring this project to life, and by the end, everything felt appropriate to me. However, I was reluctant to view the original film, The Great Indian Kitchen, as I believed that elements of it might subconsciously influence my portrayal, which I wanted to avoid. I aimed for my character to be distinctly different from my previous roles. This was precisely the response I aspired to evoke. The cycle continues… we will not change! Even if we are subjected to criticism, we will not improve ourselves! That was the essence of it!”

The actor elaborates, “This is likely the only behaviour he observed from his father and grandfather… Consequently, the son has emulated his father throughout his upbringing. Such traits are deeply embedded in our identities. These are the inherent qualities we possess. We often believe we are justified in our actions. Coming from a family of five, my father was a remarkably progressive individual. He would prepare two cups of tea for my mother each morning before she began her household duties, after which he would leave for work. My upbringing was in a small town, where people would often remark, ‘What kind of Sardar is this!’ We were not accustomed to such dynamics in our family or community. It was only when visiting friends' homes that I noticed behaviours that were absent in my own. In smaller towns, the majority of households tend to be patriarchal.”

The actor disclosed that he felt compelled to apologize to Sanya Malhotra after viewing the film at its premiere, as he was taken aback by the cruelty of his character. "During the filming, I was preoccupied with other projects and had forgotten much about the movie. The only thing that lingered in my mind was how much I had eaten! I gained one and a half kilos! We spent 10 to 15 days just eating! When the premiere arrived, I watched the film and was astonished! I thought to myself, 'What a cruel person he is!' I had completely forgotten! It was not in my recollection that I had performed such scenes! Instinctively, I approached Sanya and said, 'I am very sorry.' She found my apology quite amusing."

The success of Mrs has not been without its share of controversy. The film has faced criticism for allegedly endorsing a form of 'toxic feminism,' to which Kanwaljit responds, "We are not promoting anything. We are merely reflecting reality. We are showing a mirror. Look, this is occurring in society. We must take action. This is a vicious cycle. One person leaves after throwing out the dirty water, and then another arrives! We must break that cycle."

Mrs is available for viewing on ZEE5.

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