BeWitched

While the release of both the films has almost coincided,Konkona explains that it is hardly her latest fascination with the genre,but a mere coincidence. “Goynar Baksho is more in the comic space where the use of supernatural elements is to get people to laugh,” she says. But what both these films have done is strengthen her association with her parents. “My dad,Mukul Sharma,wrote the original short story of Ek Thi Daayan and then worked on the script along with Vishal Bhardwaj. My mother Aparna Sen has directed me in Goynar Baksho,” she says.

Ever since her debut as a child artiste in Bengali film Indira (1983),Konkona has been a powerhouse performer. She consolidated her position when she grew up with some nuanced portrayals in the regional and offbeat space,such as that of a South Indian housewife in Mr & Mrs Iyer,a schizophrenic girl in 15 Park Avenue and as a feisty journalist in Page 3. “She is one of the few actors in contemporary cinema who can carry a film on her shoulders. She is a great improviser,” Madhur Bhandarkar had said of her in an earlier interview.

While Bhandarkar’s view is shared by most filmmakers who have worked with her,Konkona remains unmoved by the appreciation. “When you love something you do,you do it well,” she says,adding that 15 Park Avenue was a big challenge.

In the last few years,Konkona has also entered the commercial space. With her roles in Wake Up Sid! opposite Ranbir Kapoor and Atithi Tum Kab Jaaoge? with Ajay Devgn,the 33-year-old has revealed an unexplored aspect of her skills to the industry. “ I am grateful that Ashwini Dhir and Ayan Mukerji believed that I could pull off a commercial role as well,” she says.

However,at the moment,Konkona the mother,has taken over. “After five films last year,I deserve this break. Now I will spend time with my baby and read scripts on the side,” she says.