Ila Arun: Sushmita Sen is a powerful actor - Exclusive

Ila Arun is enjoying the praise that is coming her way for her performance of Nalini in the crime thriller drama ‘Aarya’ season three. Her powerful character in the narrative and dynamics with Sushmita Sen, who essays the titular role, have been much appreciated. “There is conflict between both the characters but they have equal strength too,” describes Ila Arjun.

Recalling the time when she was approached for the role, Ila Arun says, “When I was offered Aarya 3, it was important that I watch the previous season, to understand the narrative. It was also challenging because you are starting afresh in an already popular series. We did workshops, there was a lot of scope for improvisation also. Ram told me to unlearn all my theatre experience for this series. They are so cool, they shoot using 360 degree technology. Ram Madhvani told me not to get scared and it was amazing because I didn’t have to do any scene again.”

Thankful for the opportunity, Ila says, “At times, as an artist, you agree to certain roles because you are tempted to not lose them and end up making the wrong choices and feel suffocated. But with Aarya, I would love to work with Ram again!”

Sushmita Sen and Ila Arun share a close bond since 2006, when they worked together on Kalpana Lajmi’s Chingaari (2006). However, they had to shed the friendship for Aarya 3. The veteran actor says, “During those days we became friends and Sushmita calls me maa. But with Aarya, we had to forget our friendship for the confrontations. I was worried about the conflict, but both of us gave all our hearts to the performances. I was also conscious because she is very tall and has a very well maintained body, but I managed to pull off my scenes with her and she helped me too.”

The shoot of Aarya 3 was briefly halted as Sushmita had suffered a heart attack. Recalling that time, Ila Arun says, “Sushmita returned to the sets after her heart attack, it had just happened a few days before I joined the shoot. The moment I entered the rehearsal hall, I wondered how I would do the confrontation scenes when she has been through this, but then I saw Sushmita performing action with a sword, I was impressed. She is a very powerful actor, I had watched her in Taali as well, she is not conscious, emotes well and tries to give her best. ”