‘It was an out-of-the-world feeling’: Actor Chhaya Kadam on her Cannes journey through ‘All We Imagine As Light’

“I wasn’t expecting this outcome, but I was really happy that after 30 years, an Indian film was screening at Cannes,” said Kadam during an interview segment held on the sidelines of the 54th anniversary of Balgandharva Theatre in Pune on Wednesday.

Kadam recounted her experience at the Cannes film festival where All We Imagine As Light directed by Payal Kapadia, won this year’s coveted Grand Prix prize, the second highest honour after Palme d’Or.

“It was an out-of-the-world feeling seeing people on both sides of the red carpet, peering into the car mirror and leaning down. I was very nervous about it, but when I heard the Marathi song ‘Gulabi Saree,’ I instantly felt comforted,” she said.

Regarding her role in the film, Kadam said, “There are three women in All We Imagine As Light. Women are typically portrayed in movies as being at odds with one another. But in this one, the focus is on three distinct women and their friendship”.

“I wasn’t expecting this outcome, but I was really happy that after 30 years, an Indian film was screening at Cannes,” said Kadam during an interview segment held on the sidelines of the 54th anniversary of Balgandharva Theatre in Pune on Wednesday.

She also elaborated about her theatre life and her stage debut Zulva in 2007, which opened doors to several theatrical roles.

However, Chhaya Kadam’s entry into films was not a bed of roses. Her first Marathi film Baimanus, was shelved, but went on to act in Baboo Band Baaja (2012) and Aayna Ka Bayna (2012). Her cinematic breakthrough came with Nagraj Manjule’s Fandry (2013 ) where she received widespread recognition across Maharashtra and also had powerful roles in films like Sairat (2016), Nude (2018), and Redu (2018).

Chhaya also forayed into Hindi cinema, delivering memorable performances in Jhund (2022), Gangubai Kathiawadi (2022), and Andhadhun (2018).

She is popular for nailing roles above her age, particularly the Rashmibai she essayed in Gangubai Kathiawadi was noted for its depth and intensity.

Regarding her experience with director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Kadam mentioned, “I have always played non-glamorous roles and seeing lavish sets and pretty actresses around was new to me.”

2024 has been an exceptional year for Chhaya as she received critical acclaim for her roles in Laapata Ladies and Madgaon Express.

According to Kadam, playing an empowering female supporting character in Laapata Ladies, Nude and other films “have made me what I am today.”

She further said that working with female directors such as Kiran Rao and Payal Kapadia always give a sense of empowerment and comfort, as it is easy to share problems with them.

Chhaya’s journey to Cannes is not just about professional success but also personal triumphs. Reflecting on her early struggles, she recalled the occasions when she would set out for shoots only to be told they were cancelled upon reaching the studio. These moments of disappointment, however, fuelled her determination to play any role given to her, Chhaya said.

“In my childhood, I used to visit Amitabh Sir’s bungalow just for a glimpse of him. Playing his wife’s role, following great actresses like Rekha and Jaya, felt unbelievable,” she added.