Amruta Khanvilkar Opens Up on Industry Stereotypes and Action Debut in Exclusive Interview
In a candid and revealing conversation with SCREEN, acclaimed actress Amruta Khanvilkar has shared her experiences of breaking barriers in the entertainment industry. The versatile performer, known for her work across films, OTT platforms, and television, delved into the challenges she faces as a Marathi actor and her exhilarating first foray into action roles.
Embracing Action in 'Taskaree': A Liberating Experience
Amruta Khanvilkar, with a career spanning over two decades, recently took on an action-packed role in Neeraj Pandey's Netflix web series Taskaree. She described this opportunity as profoundly liberating, marking a significant departure from her previous roles. Initially cast for a minor part requiring only six days of shooting, she was later asked to audition for the character of Mitali, a role demanding physical stunts.
"When I did action for the first time, it felt so liberating," Amruta expressed. "In a Neeraj Pandey series, one female does amazing stunts. I am so glad I got this opportunity." However, the journey was not without its hurdles. On her first day of stunt performance, she injured her hand while punching a stuntman, an incident that occurred just two days before her birthday. Despite the pain, she emerged feeling fearless and empowered by the experience.
In addition to Taskaree, Amruta is also featured in Jio Hotstar's show Space Gen Chandrayaan. She highlighted the rigorous research involved in such projects, noting how it provided her with insights into the pressures faced by scientists, enriching her performance.
Confronting Stigma as a Marathi Actor
Despite her success, Amruta Khanvilkar continues to encounter stereotypes and stigma within the industry, particularly related to her background as a Marathi actor. She revealed that she often hears remarks questioning her capabilities or labeling her as "over-exposed" due to her television stardom.
"I still face some stigma. I often get to hear that you are a Marathi actor. So what? I will work somewhere right. I just ignore it now," she stated. Amruta emphasized that while some actors choose to speak out against such biases, she prefers to focus on her work and let her performances speak for themselves.
Reflecting on the evolution of the entertainment industry, she acknowledged positive changes, such as the breakdown of outdated norms. "Earlier, there were so many norms and restrictions, like a female artiste's career ends once she gets married... Another myth was that if you have done TV, you cannot do films. With time, all these norms have changed," she observed. Amruta believes that the current generation of actors is more accepting, creating a better environment for artists and influencers alike.
Personal Myths and Future Projects
Amruta also addressed a common misconception about her personality, noting that many people perceive her as unapproachable. "A lot of people sometimes think I am not approachable; the audience feels scared to come and talk to me," she shared. She explained that while she is friendly, the early onset of stardom necessitated caution in her interactions, making her selective about whom she engages with.
On the professional front, Amruta Khanvilkar has an upcoming play and several films in the pipeline. She remains optimistic about the future, treating each project as a new beginning without undue expectations. "Being an artiste is just your job; you cannot make it your entire life. Opportunities come and go," she philosophized, highlighting her balanced approach to her career.
Through her resilience and talent, Amruta Khanvilkar continues to challenge stereotypes and inspire others in the dynamic world of Indian entertainment.
