Actress talks about her role in Superboys of Malegaon and her diverse acting journey across multiple acclaimed projects

Aman Jain

Manjiri Pupala has earned praise for her incredible performance as Trupti in Superboys of Malegaon, directed by Reema Kagti. In an exclusive interview with The Free Press Journal, the actress shares her experience of working on the film, the challenges she faced, and what drew her to the role. Apart from Superboys of Malegaon, Manjiri has also been a part of several other notable projects like Dhadak 2, Shehar Lakhot, Gaslight, Dahaad, and Betaal, showcasing her talent and versatility in a wide range of roles. Excepts:

Q. How did you prepare for your character in Superboys of Malegaon?

A. Actually, the preparation phase was quite interesting because, first, all the actors and I met in a workshop with Atul Mongia sir and his team. Over the course of a week, we prepped and spent time doing a lot of improvisations, feeding off each other’s energies, and trying to see where things landed.

Q. Can you share your experience working on Dhadak 2 and how it differed from other roles?

A. Again, I think I’m blessed to have worked with some fantastic female directors. Many women have shaped my journey and given me the strength to move forward. I’m really happy to have worked with yet another amazing female director, Shazia Iqbal, on Dhadak 2.

It was fascinating because my role is significant within a film that tackles casteism and suppression that comes with it. My character represents a community that’s underrepresented in the industry. I’m glad to be part of a film that’s opening up conversations on such an important topic.

Q. What did you find most challenging about your character in Shehar Lakhot?

A. Shehar Lakhot is one of my favourite projects because it was one of the most challenging roles I’ve ever done. It was set in Rajasthan, and my character was a goon—she abducts people, dominates them, and is feared by everyone. She’s this one woman in a man’s world, bringing that raw, rustic energy and harshness.

The character was extremely complex—almost diabolical—and it was fascinating to play someone so far removed from my own life. I’m born and raised in Mumbai, a city girl through and through. So for me, stepping into this extreme world was something completely different.

I had to learn archery for this role, to look convincing enough as someone who’d been doing it for years. That was definitely the most challenging part—making it look authentic. Luckily, I’ve had the opportunity to take on roles from various parts of India, so I love picking up different accents, which wasn’t really a challenge for me. But physically looking like the character was where I had to push myself. 

(Visit the FPJ website to read the full interview)