Punjab’s culture interesting, says Bhojpuri actor Rani Chatterjee

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, March 19

Call it the popularity of Punjabi films outside the regional space or vice versa, the doors seem to have opened for cross regional cinematic exchange. Rani Chatterjee, the popular face of the Bhojpuri cinema agrees, as she makes her Punjabi film debut with a film alongside actor Guggu Gill and Tinu Verma.

Shooting in Amritsar currently for her first Punjabi film Aasra, Chatterjee said it’s time actors explore more regional cinema. “I always heard a lot about Punjab and its culture and was impressed by the entertainment industry here. Punjabi films are quite popular and enjoy loyal audience like our films.”

A star in Bhojpuri film industry, Rani has worked in several blockbuster films and her filmography has over 250 films.

She is working with Amritsar-based Bhojpuri actor Balkar Singh Bali, who is also directing the film. Rani visited the Golden Temple before beginning the shooting of the film. “I always wanted to visit Punjab, especially the Golden Temple. I think Punjabis have very interesting culture and I feel quite at home here.” Despite not knowing Punjabi, she says she will work hard to overcome her language inhibitions in the film. The film is being helmed by producer Rajkumar.

Making a foray into Bhojpuri films 15 years back, Rani Chatterjee starred alongside actor Manoj Tiwari in her first film, which was successful. She was honoured the best actor (female) award in 2013 and is also a popular face internationally.