Feels great to have played a mother in 'Panga': Kangana Ranaut

Playing a mother felt amazing and different, said actress Kangana Ranaut during the promotion of her film 'Panga' in Hyderabad. Panga, directed by Ashwini Iyer, is slated for release on January 24. It has Richa Chadda and Jassie Gill in lead roles. Here are some excerpts from her interview:

Can you tell us about your role in Panga?

I play a middle-class woman and also the mother of a kid. I felt very happy and great to be playing a mother. I have many roles which elevate the image of women in society and something that is about their empowerment. But after Manikarnika, this is the first time I am playing a mother. I can say that this film is going to be a tribute to all the mothers out there who sacrifice their dreams for the sake of their family and kids especially.

How is the working experience with Ashwini Iyer?

She is an amazing director. I share a very strong and emotional bond with her. Many people who don’t like me have told many things against me to her. But she believed in me and never bothered about what they have said. Also, many told her that it is difficult with me, and she proved it wrong by answering them with the truth. She is a focused person who has clarity on what she is doing and what she wants to do.

What is it that you have liked the most about the film and your role?

I am a national level kabaddi player in this film and I get mad in between the career I want to pursue and family responsibilities. When Ashiwni narrated the script to me, the characterisation and the conflict is something that I liked very much. Usually, I get to know what the next scene is only before I head to the sets. But before I joined the sets of Panga, Ashwini elaborated everything and told me clearly.

You are shooting for Thalaivi, right? So how is it working for the South film industry?

Earlier, it was Manikarnika and now, a biopic of Jayalalithaa. I have been juggling between Hyderabad, Chennai and Mumbai. I must say that I have become a South Indian already. Some amazing films are being made down South and I really like the culture here.