After making her mark with roles in Call Me Bae, Gutargu Season 3, The Night Manager, The Trial, and a brief appearance in Bade Acche Lagte Hain Season 3, actress Surjasikha Das is now drawing attention for her powerful portrayal of Nandini in the Kajol-led film Maa. Known for choosing substantial roles in both OTT and film, Surjasikha opens up about how this pivotal role came to her and the transformation it demanded.
Recalling the casting moment, she shares, “I was randomly walking in Aram Nagar one day, looking for auditions, when I was called in for a test. I was skeptical, another mother’s role? But then I thought, let’s give it my all. The director spoke to me in depth, about my thoughts, goals, and whether I’d be okay doing a non-glamorous, older character with a daughter. And honestly, it didn’t matter to me. Glamorous or not, I just want to perform. If the role offers scope, I’m in.”
The emotional depth of the character required significant preparation. “I did a lot of prep for the part. I consciously changed my physicality to look like a mother, put on a bit of healthy weight because sometimes looking more mature helps. I also spoke to my sisters, who have young kids, and observed how they react to situations. I revisited my own childhood memories, how my mom used to behave, and how I used to respond emotionally. All those layers helped build the character.”
Surjasikha describes the filming experience as unforgettable. “It was incredible. On just the second day of shoot, I had a major emotional scene on a massive set filled with experienced actors. I was terrified. I kept thinking, Either I’ll make a lasting impression—or blow it entirely. But when we wrapped that scene, the director called ‘cut’ and everyone around started clapping. It was an overwhelming moment. I remember calling my mom afterward, crying, saying ‘I did it!’ she says.
The positive feedback was immediate and heartfelt. “Even before the film’s release, I received so much appreciation. At the premiere, people came up to me, congratulating me on the performance and the transformation. My look in the film was very different, and we shot for over 38–39 days. Spending that much time with a big team, in a high-pressure environment, you really need a positive atmosphere and I was lucky to have that. I learned so much, not just about acting, but about life from the people around me,” she says.
