Bonita Rajpurohit's story is one that shatters boundaries and redefines what it means to be an actor in Indian cinema. In Dibakar Banerjee's groundbreaking film ‘LSD 2: Love, Sex Aur Dhokha 2,’ Rajpurohit doesn't just deliver a performance – she embodies a revolution. Born on August 28, 1998, in Rajasthan, this powerhouse talent is not only an actress but also a filmmaker, carving her own path with projects like ‘IYKYK’ and ‘It's all in your Head.’ But it's her role in ‘LSD 2’ that marks a seismic shift for authentic transgender representation in Bollywood.
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Landing the Groundbreaking Role in ‘LSD 2’
Her journey to becoming Kullu, a transgender sex worker in the film, wasn't your typical casting call. "I've been auditioning for a long time now," Rajpurohit reveals, "for advertisements or films, anything really." Unaware at first of the significance this role would hold, she went through numerous rounds of auditions and an intensive month-long workshop before landing the part.
Stepping into Kullu's shoes presented unique challenges for Rajpurohit. "It was so close to my heart, you know," she confides, "too close to my personal life. It can be emotionally difficult to portray a character that mirrors your own experiences. Initially, I wasn't sure I was ready for it at all."
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Bonita Rajpurohit on Working with Bollywood Stars
Working alongside established actors like Swastika Mukherjee proved to be an invaluable learning experience. "Swastika ma'am was incredibly supportive throughout the entire shoot," Bonita Rajpurohit shares. "There she was, taking care of me, even on set. I remember filming a scene where I was supposed to be in a hospital bed. She made sure I was comfortable, that I could breathe properly."
The experience with director Dibakar Banerjee was equally enriching. "Dibakar sir was amazing," she beams. "He had this calming presence, this composure that really helped me relax. I never felt pressured during filming."
Bonita Rajpurohit's Message of Liberation for Pride Month
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Rajpurohit, a true trailblazer in her industry, has a powerful message for the LGBTQ+ community, especially during Pride Month. In her own words, Rajpurohit advises, ""Live like the way you want to be, it's just liberating to so many extents." She acknowledges the challenges, but emphasises the importance of perseverance: ""I think I would just advise this to everyone. It is difficult. Everything seems difficult. Life is not easy for anybody. It's just that you have to take up those challenges. Because after those challenges, the destination that you reach is rewarding."
Rajpurohit goes on to highlight the importance of finding your voice and creating positive change, "I would say, you know, work, do something, act upon your dreams, act upon the kind of world that you want to see, because at this point, there can be so many narratives where we don't feel like we are represented well."
Bonita Rajpurohit Beyond Acting: A Passion for Filmmaking
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Rajpurohit's talents extend far beyond acting. She has already ventured into filmmaking with her short film ‘IYKYK,’ which garnered a Special Mention at the Kashish Film Festival. "Filmmaking has always been a passion," she explains. "The idea was, if nobody gives me a role, I'll create my own film, write a character for myself, on my own terms.”
Changing the Narrative: Trans Visibility in Indian Cinema
The ongoing debate around cisgender actors portraying transgender characters finds Rajpurohit offering a nuanced perspective. "I think with 'LSD 2,' things are already changing," she states. "There are actually two trans women in the film playing cisgender characters. It was their way of contributing to the story, moving it forward."
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Beyond the Spotlight: Challenges and Aspirations
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Despite the strides she's made, Rajpurohit acknowledges the challenges that persist. "The reality is much deeper than what people might see on screen," she says, addressing misconceptions about her newfound fame. "It's still up to people to decide if they want to offer me opportunities, if there are more trans stories waiting to be told."
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Currently, Rajpurohit is focused on personal goals, including undergoing sex reassignment surgery. "It's something I've always wanted," she shares. "I'm saving up, maybe looking for a job to ensure I have enough for the surgery. It's a dream I've held onto for a long time."
Bonita Rajpurohit is more than just an emerging talent, she's a game-changer for trans representation in Indian cinema. Her honesty, vulnerability, and powerful performances are paving the way for a more inclusive Bollywood narrative.
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