I learnt from Laila Ali and Hilary Swank: Anindita

Judhajit Sarkar's Khashi Katha is a bitter-sweet tale narrated by a goat to escape the butcher's (Naseeruddin Shah) knife. Prasun Gain and Anindita, who play pivotal roles in the movie, share their experience of being part of this unique tale with CT.
Excerpts:
Tell us something about your on-screen characters.
Anindita: I play Salma, a girl from a lower middle-class family, who fights the odds to become a boxer.
Prasun: My character is that of a failed boxer who wants to do something else in life. But he is the inspiration for his sister Salma.
How did you prepare for you roles?
A: We attended a two-week workshop at the Kidderpore Boxing Club under the supervision of Naseem Ahmed. I also watched several videos of Laila Ali's bouts and also Hilary Swank in Million Dollar Baby. Boxing is a really tough game! I'm a gym person, but a three-minute bout leaves me exhausted.
P: Though I did not need to have a deep knowledge of the game for my role, I had to know the technicalities. I watched a few films on boxing. The workshop was of great help.
What made you say yes to the film?
A: Naseeruddin Shah was a part of it! So, when I was told about the film, I didn't even ask about my role.
P: Over the years I have left several good offers in my career and after 10 years, I got a role. I was in Mumbai for a short film when I got a call for this film.
Do you feel the audience will accept the film?
A: I feel Kolkata's cine-goers accept new kind of films and that's why directors are able to experiment. This film is a complete package. It has drama, fantasy, animation, romance and even an item song! I'm sure people will love it.
Are you nervous about the film's release?
A: I am having butterflies in my stomach (smiles).
P: I am really hoping for a good response. It was like a test for us and we are waiting for the results!