Rasika Dugal, popularly known for her role as Beena Tripathi in the hit series Mirzapur, recently shared her experiences of being typecast in the industry. The talented actress, who has now established herself in both Bollywood and the OTT space, spoke candidly about how she was often cast in roles that required her to cry on screen.
Rasika Dugal’s Struggles with Typecasting
In an interview with The Indian Express, Rasika reflected on a challenging phase in her career when she found herself repeatedly cast in emotional, tear-jerking roles. She recalled, “There was a time when I could read the script backwards and know that there would be at least two crying scenes in the last ten pages.” Rasika’s frustration with being pigeonholed into such roles was palpable as she recounted how these scripts always had her in similar, emotionally draining scenarios.
The Impact of OTT Platforms on Rasika’s Career
Rasika credits the rise of OTT platforms for the positive shift in her career. With the advent of streaming services, she has been able to explore a more diverse range of characters. “The growth of OTT platforms has been a game-changer for me,” Rasika said. She emphasized how these platforms have provided her with opportunities to showcase her talent to a broader audience, breaking free from the limitations of her earlier roles.
A Career Defined by Memorable Performances
Rasika Dugal’s journey in the entertainment industry has been marked by a series of standout performances. While she gained significant recognition for her role in Mirzapur, she has also delivered impressive performances in other notable projects. One such example is her portrayal of Safia, the wife of the legendary writer Saadat Hasan Manto, in the critically acclaimed film Manto, where she starred opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui.
Rasika’s versatility as an actress is evident in her diverse body of work. She has appeared in a variety of popular web series, including Delhi Crime, Made in Heaven, A Suitable Boy, and OK Computer. Each of these roles has allowed her to explore different facets of her acting abilities, moving beyond the stereotypical roles she was once offered.
Misogynistic Incidents in the Industry
During the interview, Rasika also touched upon the challenges she has faced as a woman in the industry. She mentioned encountering “some misogynistic incidents” throughout her career, although she did not delve into specific details. These experiences, however, have not deterred her from pursuing her passion for acting and pushing the boundaries of her craft.
Rasika Dugal’s Gratitude for the Changing Landscape
Despite the challenges, Rasika Dugal expressed gratitude for the opportunities that have come her way, particularly in recent years. She acknowledged that the changing landscape of the entertainment industry, driven by the proliferation of OTT platforms, has played a crucial role in allowing her to take on more nuanced and varied roles.
