My film Rabbi shows how society is God-fearing, whereas actually we should be God-loving - Bidita Bag

The commercial release of Rabbi is on the cards with the movie hitting screens across India on 15th September, 2017. For Bidita Bag, Rabbi comes as an almost immediate release after her recent hit, Babumoshai Bandookbaaz where she stars against the extremely talented Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Bidita’s talent is being recognized across the globe for her bold acting in Babumoshai Bandookbaaz. She has always had an inclination towards socio-political films and Rabbi is one such film addressing social beliefs. Excerpts from an interview with the actor... 

1.     How are you feeling after the recent success of Babumoshai Bandookbaaz? How was the experience of working with Nawazuddin Siddiqui?

Answer – It has been a couple of years since I started, and finally my work has been recognized by the wider audience with this movie. Nawaz is a very talented artiste and in some ways I relate to him and his struggle to make it into Bollywood. Of course, for me the entry came much sooner as compared to him. He is a very nice human being and is very grounded and humble which I think is the reason for his success. 

2.     Coming to Rabbi, what prompted you to choose this project?

Answer – From the moment I heard the story, I was in love with it. I believe the movie answers some important questions that are left unanswered in our day to day lives. Is Music forbidden in Islam was something that appealed to me... In our society people are made to be God-fearing, whereas actually we should be God-loving. I feel it is important to communicate this message. 

3.     Director Rahat Kazmi is known for being unconventional in his ways... how was your experience working with him?

Answer –Rahat is trying to encourage the film industry in his hometown Jammu and Kashmir. He ensures that there is local involvement in his films which brings more flavour to his works. He has a knack of recognizing a sensible script and atire is his forte. And when Rahat makes a film his entire family is involved in it from start to end. They see to it that the work setting is extremely friendly and comfortable. You almost feel that  you are on a trip to enjoy and the shooting just happens in between! Excellent experience working with him (smiles). 

4.     What are your expectations from Rabbi?

Answer – Is movie ka dil bada hai (This movie has a big heart). I’m sure the audience will enjoy it, the main reason being that the film looks at contemporary problems. Rabbi also addresses at terrorism. 

5.     Tell us about your role in the movie...

Answer – My character in this movie is called Afia, a typical Muslim girl, belonging to a conservative family, covered from head to toe. However, she is very liberal in her thoughts and outlook. She is Rabbi’s cousin, friend and support system. At the same time, she is also his biggest critic. She constantly inspires him to achieve more while keeping him grounded and giving him reality checks. 

6.     How was the crew and how did you fit in considering the diverse amounts of experience spread across?

Answer – I would happily say all the senior members loved me a lot and made me feel at home. Dolly ji, Virendra ji, Raghubir ji were all very supportive. In fact we gelled very well over music since both Raghubir ji and Virendra ji enjoy singing and I play the harmonium, we had our own musical sessions that I cherish even today. 

7.     Your future projects?

Answer – I have a few movies in the pipeline such as Daya Bai which is biopic on Daya Bai, T for Taj Mahal, a film on education among others. 

8.     The music forms an important part of this movie, which is your favourite song and why?

Answer – Yes, the music truly brings out the feel of the film. All the songs are really nice but my favourite is Amma Teri Lag Gayi, sung by Raghubir ji. For me, the song was relatable to an extent as when I was growing up my father also always hoped that I would get a Government job and I think this is a common story for every middle class youngster in our country. 

9.     Many youngsters are trying to follow similar footsteps as yours, to do more meaningful and mature cinema, what is your message to them?

Answer – Every Artist has a unique journey. Along with hard work, even luck plays a part in one’s fate. I would say this industry is uncertain from a career perspective. If you are to make a career in this industry, you need to be extremely patient and constantly work on improving your skills. You should give yourself enough time and failures should not stop you.