Why Bhumika did Collector Gari Bhaarya

Bhumika Chawla is a busy woman after marriage.

The actress who juggles acting along with other responsibilities is turning producer with her husband yoga guru Bharat Thakur. Their first Telugu film Thakita Thakita rolled out recently and is doing decent business. Bhumika's latest release is Collector Gari Bhaarya.

In this exclusive interview Bhumika talks about Collector Gari Bhaarya releasing this Diwali. Excerpts:

Of late, you have been selective about your roles. How did you sign Collector Gari Bhaarya? 

After a certain point of time, one wants to do interesting, challenging, satisfying and yet commercial roles and it's not very often that such scripts happen. I did Collector Gari Bhaarya because it was different and more importantly, because I hope it will change a few lives. Women, till date in the 21st century, are not being treated well. If it does happen to help at least five lives, that will be my reward.

Does the movie focus on marriage?

My father used to joke, "how come all the love stories we hear are before marriage? Aren't there love stories after marriage or what?" Well, this movie is about marriage. It probably is just a way to state that life is beautiful. If we start understanding our partner a little better and with respect and care, life will be beautiful.

Did you go by what the director said to play the Collector's wife?

The director of the film is Krupakar Reddy, and this is his first film. There were times I had questions and he answered them. My doubts as an actor were cleared. At the end of the day, I realised he was a person who was very clear in his mind about what he wanted and so as an actor I just followed his lead. After all, the director is the captain of the ship. As an actor once you start a project, you have to have your own sensibilities and yet have faith in the director. It was an interesting journey doing this film.

Prakash Raj plays the collector and your husband. You are paired opposite him for the first time. How was the experience?

I have worked with Prakash Raj before in Okkadu, though this is the first time I'm being paired opposite him in Telugu. I have recently done a film with him in Tamil which will also be releasing soon. It was a great experience working with him, and also a learning experience. He is very hard working and yet fun on sets.

The film is produced by two women -- Vanita Vani and Radhika Reddy. Was that also a motivating factor for you to sign the film?

As a professional, it does not matter who produces the film. I'm only concerned about the story. Still it was nice to work with women producers, who were very calm, understanding and friendly on the sets.

How was it working with director Kripakar Reddy?

It was very nice to work with him, to see his faith, confidence and dedication. He has put in a lot of hard work in this project and I truly wish him the best for his debut project.

Are you happy with the way Thakita Thakita has fared?

Thakita Thakita is like our child. Bharat and I, and the entire team put in our best efforts. It has fared well. Though not a superhit, it is a film that has set very high standards regarding production and working style.

Also, after the film's release, I have got a lot of mails and feedback from Telugu fans across Andhra Pradesh and the world over wherein they mentioned that they have enjoyed the college scenes, music, and the scene in the college lab like the acid throwing menace, etc. We are happy with the product though recovery may not have been full, yet it's something I am proud of.

Have you started any other production in Telugu or other languages?

No, not yet. I have not thought of it.

Are you acting in any other Telugu film?

I am doing a film with Balakrishna sir, which we will start shooting soon.

What keeps you busy these days? You seem to be travelling a lot...

Life is a beautiful journey. I am in Dubai now. I love to travel. Well, being married and working keeps me busy. I love to learn new things, even though I may not be a master in them yet. I feel one should work, enjoy, and keep oneself busy, yet never forget to live life. Very few people can relax truly, learn to be idle sometimes and enjoy that, for that's when you harness your energy for bigger things in life.

 Any good books you have read?

I'm reading Shantaram these days. It's a very very well written book and a beautiful journey.