Aditya Seal, known for his versatility and dynamic range as an actor, has taken on one of the most challenging roles of his career in the groundbreaking film Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani, where he portrays a queer character. This bold move not only pushes the boundaries of his own artistic capabilities but also shines a light on the nuances of love and identity. In an exclusive interview with News18, Aditya shared the intense preparation he undertook to bring authenticity to such a deeply emotional role. He revealed the creative challenges he faced, the intricate process of embodying the character, and the powerful connection he built with his co-stars to bring this complex story to life.
Reflecting on his journey, Aditya spoke candidly about how playing diverse characters has profoundly shaped his career, allowing him to explore new depths in his craft. He described how this role, in particular, has broadened his understanding of human emotion and storytelling, marking a transformative chapter in his career. Here’s an in-depth look at his thoughtful reflections and the impact of this groundbreaking role on his artistic journey.
Portraying a Queer Character: Breaking Stereotypes
Aditya Seal’s role in Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani marks a significant step for LGBTQ representation in mainstream Indian cinema. Unlike many stereotypical portrayals, Aditya’s approach was to normalize the character and treat the love story with the same authenticity as any heterosexual relationship.
Reflecting on his preparation for the role, he explained, “The preparation was just trying to normalize the entire thing. Many might think it required meeting several people from the community for research, but that wasn’t necessary for me. I already knew people from the LGBTQ community, and I wanted to approach this like any other love story—just two individuals in love.”
His portrayal has been praised for its authenticity and avoidance of clichés. “We weren’t trying to make anyone laugh or present caricatures. There was no attempt to dress up in a particular way that could reinforce preconceived notions about the community,” he said. “It was important to keep it real and show that, at the end of the day, these are two people experiencing genuine emotions and love, just like anyone else.”
Building Chemistry On-Screen with Sunny Singh
Playing a romantic lead alongside Sunny Singh, Aditya shared his experiences on building on-screen chemistry. Despite both actors living in the same area for years, they had never met before the film. “It took a day or two to get comfortable with each other and the physicality of the role,” Aditya admitted. “But once we broke the ice, the gender aspect faded away, and it just became about two friends working together to create chemistry.”
The shared background helped them bond quickly, which contributed significantly to the chemistry visible on screen. “The friendship we built off-screen translated into a more authentic connection in front of the camera,” he added.
The Message of Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani: Love is Universal
Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani is not just a love story; it’s a film that aims to change perspectives and challenge societal norms. Aditya Seal hopes the audience takes away a powerful message about equality. “We wanted to show that the emotions and feelings of a queer person are no different from anyone else’s,” he said. “The idea that people have to fight for their right to love is baffling, and this film attempts to normalize that love, showing that it deserves the same respect as any other.”
Emotional Impact and Audience Reactions
Aditya Seal was deeply moved by the overwhelming response to the film. He shared a particularly touching experience with a fan. “I received a message from a gay man who had been living with his partner but had never come out to his family. After watching the film, he felt inspired and finally told his brother about his reality, who accepted him with open arms,” Aditya recounted. “It was a very personal and special story, and knowing that the film had such a meaningful impact was incredibly rewarding.”
Support from His Partner, Anushka Ranjan
When asked how his partner, Anushka Ranjan, responded to the role, Aditya said she was entirely supportive. “She shares the same mindset as me when it comes to exploring different kinds of projects and stories. She appreciated how the film portrayed homosexuality in a fresh, normalized way, without resorting to stereotypes,” he shared.
Upcoming Projects: Working with Industry Legends
Looking ahead, Aditya Seal is set to appear in Maharagni: Queens of Queens, sharing screen space with industry veterans like Kajol and Prabhu Deva. Although he hasn’t shot scenes with them yet, he expressed his excitement and nervousness. “Kajol ma’am is someone I’ve admired for years, and Prabhu Deva sir introduced me to the world of dance. His songs from Humse Hai Muqabala were the first I ever performed on stage. Working with them will be a dream come true,” he said.
The Thrill of Diverse Roles and Challenging Characters
Aditya has portrayed a range of characters throughout his career, from romantic leads to pivotal roles in major productions. His choices are driven by a desire for creative satisfaction and a quest for roles that challenge him. “I don’t want to keep doing the same kind of role. The thrill for me lies in exploring new characters and diving into the backstory to create something unique,” he explained.
He credits Tum Bin as a pivotal project in his growth as an actor, teaching him the importance of workshops and preparation in understanding a character. “We did intense workshops and readings for Tum Bin, which gave me a foundation for developing future roles. Since then, I’ve always carried forward those lessons,” he said.
His recent role in Khel Khel Mein also boosted his confidence, especially since he shared the screen with big names like Akshay Kumar, Taapsee Pannu, and Fardeen Khan. “Sitting at the same table with such stalwarts and holding my own in scenes with them was a big confidence booster,” he added.
Balancing Artistic Expression and Commercial Success
Navigating the fine line between artistic expression and commercial viability is something Aditya considers with every project. He believes that making a quality film is the best way to achieve both. “If you create a good product, it will find its audience, regardless of whether it’s a mainstream blockbuster or a niche experimental film,” he said. He cited Laapata Ladies as a prime example of a film that succeeded without the backing of superstars but still won over audiences with its storytelling.
Lessons from His Characters: Living Life to the Fullest
Aditya Seal carries valuable life lessons from the characters he portrays. “I’ve learned to take life one day at a time, treating it like a summer vacation,” he reflected. “You have to do everything you can before the vacation ends. It’s a philosophy I picked up while working on Tum Bin and one I continue to live by.”
Looking Forward: What’s Next for Aditya Seal?
After Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani and Maharagni, Aditya is eager to explore new genres, including action and darker roles. “I’m ready for a change, and I’d love to play a complex anti-hero or a character with shades of gray,” he said. He remains open to any role that pushes him out of his comfort zone and allows him to grow as an artist.
In conclusion, Aditya Seal’s journey reflects a commitment to challenging stereotypes, taking on diverse roles, and continuously evolving as an actor. His work in Amar Prem Ki Prem Kahani stands out not just for the bravery it required, but also for the empathy and authenticity it brought to the portrayal of queer love. As he continues to embrace roles that push boundaries, there’s no doubt that Aditya Seal will remain a compelling figure in the world of Indian cinema.
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