Assamese actor Joyeeta Dutta is currently in the spotlight for her performance in the warmly received film 'The Great Shamsuddin Family'. The movie, directed by Anusha Rizvi and starring Kritika Kamra in the lead, has been celebrated for its authentic and heartfelt depiction of family dynamics. In a recent conversation, Dutta opened up about why accepting this role was an instinctive and significant decision for her.
An Instinctive Yes to a Story of Depth
Speaking to Mid-Day, Joyeeta Dutta revealed that her choice to be part of the project was driven purely by instinct. She was immediately captivated by the script's promise of honesty and emotional depth. "I felt grateful to be invited into a space that promised depth and honesty," the actor shared, highlighting the magnetic pull of the narrative.
Learning from Veterans Without Intimidation
The film features an ensemble cast including seasoned actors like Farida Jalal and Dolly Ahluwalia. When asked about sharing screen space with such veterans, Dutta expressed no sense of intimidation. She credited her theatre background for preparing her for collaborative work. "Theatre has prepared me well for ensemble work. You shine in an ensemble when you lead with curiosity and generosity. If you lean in and stay fully involved, everything else disappears," she explained, outlining her approach to performing alongside legends.
A Homecoming Through Cinema in Assam
Parallel to this project, Joyeeta Dutta also worked on 'Coconut Dreams', a part of the anthology Yuva Sapno Ka Safar. This experience, shot in Assam under the direction of Rima Das, held a special place in her heart as it allowed for a profound reconnection with her roots. "It allowed me to shoot on my land and speak in my mother tongue. That felt special," she said, summarising the sentimental value of the project.
'The Great Shamsuddin Family' portrays a chaotic day in the life of a Muslim family based in Delhi, focusing on a woman juggling a critical career deadline with relentless family interruptions. The film, written and directed by Anusha Rizvi, boasts a cast including Kritika Kamra, Joyeeta Dutta, Shreya Dhanwanthary, Sheeba Chaddha, Farida Jalal, and Purab Kohli. It is currently available for streaming on JioHotstar.
