Acclaimed actress Huma Qureshi is once again in the spotlight, taking on a role that promises to cement her status as a versatile powerhouse in the Indian film industry. After her convincing stint as a political figure in the widely appreciated third season of ‘Maharani,’ Qureshi is all set to captivate audiences as an auto-rickshaw driver in the eagerly anticipated movie ‘Gulabi.’ Helmed by director Vipul Mehta, the film has been undergoing a rigorous shooting schedule since April this year, signaling an uncompromising commitment to its timely completion.
Producer Vishal Rana, whose recent venture included the suspenseful ‘Blurr’ starring Taapsee Pannu, is the driving force behind ‘Gulabi.’ With this film, Rana aspires to forge a path for narratives where female protagonists aren’t just participating in the story but are at the crux of the storyline, harnessing themes of women empowerment and the education of the girl child. Grounded in authenticity, the film’s plot is said to be inspired by a tapestry of real-life events though not tethered to a singular individual’s story. At its heart lies Qureshi’s character, the determined and dauntless auto-rickshaw driver from Ahmedabad, who yearns for education.
As Gulabi’s quest for knowledge unfolds, she becomes a beacon of inspiration, encouraging not just herself but also others around her to seek enlightenment through education. Rana passionately expresses, “As a producer, my goal is to champion films that spotlight strong women. The heroines in my films should be seen as paragons who are undeterred by adversity and are determined to contribute positively to society.”
Huma Qureshi’s dedication to ‘Gulabi’ stems from a genuine connection with her character and a deep understanding of the movie’s overarching message. Rana speaks highly of Qureshi, sharing his experience when presenting the script to her, where her immediate reaction was one of excitement for the character’s progression. According to Rana, Qureshi personifies Gulabi’s fortitude and determination in the face of obstacles with remarkable authenticity.
Challenging deep-seated norms about gender in acting, Rana confesses his long-standing belief that female actors exhibit more strength, self-restraint, and discipline. These convictions only solidified as he witnessed Qureshi’s unmatched work ethic on set. Amidst the hustle and bustle of over 500 crew members, and against the backdrop of live locations populated with genuine by-standers embroiled in the scorching heat, Qureshi has admirably led the helm.
Her commitment to the art form was particularly evident during the filming of a critical and emotionally charged scene, which she mastered flawlessly in a single take, moving the entire crew to tears with her expressive portrayal. It was a testament to her skill and became a poignant moment that underscored the film’s essence.
Rana further elaborates on the raw, unfiltered atmosphere that ‘Gulabi’ was filmed in. The live locales and direct interaction with the public added layers of realism to the storytelling, maximizing the impact of the narrative. Qureshi, having stood strong in such challenging conditions, evokes a performance of substantial depth that makes her not just the protagonist, but the very soul of the film.
The excitement surrounding ‘Gulabi’ extends beyond the compelling story and Qureshi’s performance. It’s also a reflection of the evolving cinema landscape, where filmmakers like Vishal Rana are consciously elevating the narratives of women, portraying them as multifaceted individuals who navigate and influence their worlds powerfully. Consequently, ‘Gulabi’ is more than a film; it’s a statement and a spirit that embodies the relentless pursuit of empowerment and progress, a beacon for what’s possible when conviction meets craft.
With the film industry’s wheel turning towards more substantive and meaningful content, Qureshi’s ‘Gulabi’ is poised to be a cinematic milestone that not only entertains but also educates and empowers. It is this synthesis of entertainment and societal commentary that ‘Gulabi’ offers, making it one of the most anticipated releases, where the narrative of empowerment is not just told but emphatically lived through its protagonist.
