The E-word

Produced by Alka Kubal Athalye and directed by Ramesh More,who won the National Award last year for ‘Champion’,the film ‘Aamhi Ka Tisare’ tells the stories of four eunuchs,one of them being Anu. “Considering that most of the roles that I have played till now,cater to rural audiences,the character of Anu was completely new and challenging as an actor. I immediately signed the film,” says Gawali,who has worked in films like ‘He Milan Saubhagyache’,’Devaki’,’Vitthal Vitthal’,’Maratha Battalion’ and so on.

Gawali adds that,unfortunately,he did not get an opportunity to meet Tripathi in person before the shoot as she was busy with Bigg Boss Season 5. So,as homework,he watched the reality show on YouTube to understand her body language and mannerisms. He even watched a documentary on Laxmi titled ‘Between the lines’ by Thomas Wartmann.

‘Aamhi Ka Tisare’ is inspired by the book ‘Aamhi Ka Nahi’ written by Paru Naik.To reach out to wider audience,the film releases with English subtitles. It will also be screened at KASHISH Mumbai International Queer Film Festival on May 25.

Gawali admits that until he began working on the film,he used to get uncomfortable whenever he encountered eunuchs. His perspective towards them underwent a huge change when he got to know them better. “Around 90 per cent of the characters in the film are ‘kinnars’ and as I interacted with them,I learnt that they are just like us,” says the actor,adding,“Though the reason for signing the film initially was performance-driven,but as we started shooting,I genuinely got acquainted with the harsh realities this community.”

Today,when Gawli sees a ‘kinnar’ at traffic signals on roads,he makes it a point to ask them their name and even tells them that he has worked in a film based on their lives. “It is said that if you pay them an amount,you should take ten per cent back. The ten per cent is regarded as blessings and I make sure to ask for it,” he says.

Having seen the film’s trial,Laxmi Tripathi is all praise for the film as well as Gawali’s work and is hopeful of the change in the perception of the society towards the community. “It will happen but gradually. Rome was not built in one day,” says Tripathi.