Ruhani Sharma delighted with Agra recognition. Ruhani Sharma is excited as director of Agra, Kanu Behl got five minute standing ovation when the film was premiered at the Cannes International Film Festival in the Director's Fortnight Section.
Agra happens to be Ruhani Sharma's debut in Bollywood and she is excited. Earlier her Tollywood debut film Chi La Sow won the Nandi award for the best screenplay. Ruhani says "How many actors are blessed to get this? It’s a double delight," Talking about Agra, she said "The film going to Cannes was itself a matter of pride. And to get such a resounding reception was overwhelming,"
Agra is all about the family’s interpersonal dynamics in the context of sexual relationships and challenges faced by young Indians who are experimental in their choices but are bound by traditional values. Ruhani auditioned for her role of Mala three times. She says "Kanu’s methods of auditioning are very different. When I went for the workshop, I didn’t know that I was selected,"
She added, "I spent two months on workshops, so my preparation time was greater than the shooting schedule." About her character, she said "Prepping and shooting for my character, Mala, was a learning experience. It was very intense and at times emotionally draining. Since the plot is set in Agra, I spent considerable time understanding the lives of the people there,"
About her role having bold and intimate scenes, she said "I was initially apprehensive whether I could pull it off. But Kanu convinced me and told me that the scenes would be aesthetically shot. In fact, those intimate scenes drive the narrative," "The times and mindsets of people have changed. They are receptive of content that’s engaging. People are appreciating women in bold roles too,"