Payal Rajput about her problems galore

Payal Rajput about her problems galore. Payal Rajput has just completed shooting her upcoming film, "Mangalavaram," a psychological rustic thriller directed by Ajay Bhupathi, who she collaborated with on her debut film, "RX100." She had longed to work with him again since her very first movie.

"When Ajay shared the story of 'Mangalavaram' with me, my immediate reaction was 'wow.' The gripping narrative drew me in because it's not your typical masala fare; it's very unconventional," Payal enthusiastically shares.

The actress highlights that the director's vision is always distinct, and after hearing this unique story, Payal knew instantly that she wanted to take on the challenging character. "I was actively seeking a demanding role that would challenge me as an actor," she adds, asserting that she couldn't have chosen a better film at this stage of her career.

In "Mangalavaram," Payal portrays Shailu, an introverted rustic girl whose character evolves as the story unfolds. The teaser hints at her involvement in some daring sequences.

She also notes that contemporary audiences are increasingly receptive to alternative cinema, which includes raw and rustic performances.

"I didn't have any reservations about performing bold and intense scenes because they are integral to storytelling. Furthermore, as an actor, I should be open to diverse roles. In the film, my character's journey from innocence to self-discovery is incredibly intriguing," she comments.

The film delves into themes of black magic and societal taboos. Considering her city background, Payal is asked if she believes in black magic. She responds, "Yes, I do," and goes on to say, "I believe in positive manifestation, and many positive things happened while shooting. So, I am also convinced there's negative energy around."

The most challenging part of filming, she reveals, was shooting the climax scene in the scorching midsummer heat last year in Atreyapuram village, where the film's plot is set. Despite the oppressive humidity, she didn't follow a liquid diet, which led to dehydration and eventually a kidney infection.

"While shooting, I felt uneasy and knew something was off in my body. I was experiencing a lot of body pains. However, the director insisted that I couldn't return to Hyderabad for treatment because the unit had planned an extensive shooting schedule," Payal recalls.

After five days, the director realized the severity of her condition and promptly arranged for doctors from Hyderabad to come to the village for her treatment. "I shot the film while on antibiotics for a week. Later, the kidney stones were flushed out."

Payal explains that the role was both physically and emotionally demanding, and she took a few weeks off after filming to visit her mother and recover from the character's lingering impact.

"It was an intense and dark role that shook my soul. I was emotionally affected by it. But it was also draining to go through the character's emotional highs and lows," she reveals, emphasizing the roller coaster of emotions her character experiences in the film.