The overzealous Kolkata media can prove to be a test of patience for most visiting celebrities. Some cower under their glare, some snub them defiantly, but not many have the charm or the wit to negotiate them like Nandita Das, who is in the city for the premiere her directorial debut, Firaaq, at the Kolkata Film Festival. When approached by two television channel crews for bytes, she makes it very clear that she will talk to both simultaneously. “And I will look at you because I like women better,” she smiles at the lady anchor, instantly cutting the male anchor, who insisted on thrusting the mike on her face, down to size.

But then those who have followed Das’s 12-year-old career closely, will probably recognize the spunk that distinguishes her from other actors of her generation. The same spunk that made her approach an unconventional subject like Firaaq (which talks about the aftermath of violence) with such gusto. She discuses her film and her career with Talk.

Tell us about your directorial debut Firaaq.
The film was a cathartic experience. As a generation we are numb to violence around us. Firaaq is an attempt to understand that. Through five different stories, it explores the horrific carnage at Gujarat.

What kind of problems did you face during the making of the film?
The biggest problem was with the attitudes. People are so used to mediocrity that any attempt at perfection is scoffed at. While I was trying to approach the film with as much sincerity as possible, people thought I was being a pain. (Laughs).

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