“Saraswati in ‘Dacoit’ Will Be a Memorable Role in My Career – I Performed Risky Action Stunts”: Mrunal Thakur
Riding high on back-to-back pan-India blockbusters, Adivi Sesh is all set to entertain audiences with the action-romantic thriller “Dacoit.” The film marks the directorial debut of Shaniel Deo. Mrunal Thakur plays the female lead opposite Sesh, while Anurag Kashyap appears in a pivotal role.
Presented by Annapurna Studios, the film is produced by Supriya Yarlagadda, with Suniel Narang as co-producer. The teaser, trailer, and songs have already created strong buzz around the film, which is slated for a grand theatrical release on April 10.
At a recent press interaction, Mrunal Thakur shared interesting insights about the film and her role.
How was it playing such a complex character in Dacoit?
Saraswati is a very challenging character. However, the makers designed it in a way that made it easier for an actor to understand and perform. Playing a role that pushes me as an actor always gives me immense satisfaction. I truly enjoyed portraying Saraswati.
This is one of the most different roles in my career so far. It belongs to a genre I haven’t explored before. I’m confident the audience will love it. I also performed some action stunts in the film—especially the chasing sequences and driving scenes, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
On Telugu audience love
With films like Sita Ramam, Hi Nanna, and The Family Star, Telugu audiences have embraced me like one of their own. Their love means a lot to me, and I will never forget it. They trust me to choose good roles, and I believe Saraswati will live up to that expectation.
Why did this film excite you?
I always like to experiment and surprise myself as an actor. This film gave me that opportunity. I’m drawn to stories that explore new emotions and characters I haven’t portrayed before, and Dacoit is exactly that kind of film.
What was your reaction when you first heard the story?
What intrigued me the most was understanding why Saraswati and Hari turn into dacoits. That emotional journey is something audiences should experience on the big screen. It’s essentially a very different kind of love story.
About the music
The song “Roobaru” has already become a big hit. There are more songs in the film that will surprise the audience—they are truly mind-blowing.
Working with Adivi Sesh
I want audiences to come to theatres for Sesh. He has delivered an outstanding performance in this film, playing a character unlike anything he has done before. I believe this will be one of his best films. Working with him and Prakash Raj was a wonderful experience.
Sita vs Saraswati – Any similarities?
Both characters are completely different. Audiences have already seen me in a role like Sita. For those who want to see me in a completely new avatar, Dacoit will definitely be a surprise.
Shooting in Hindi and Telugu
We shot the film in both languages, which made the process more challenging. My previous films like Sita Ramam, Hi Nanna, and The Family Star were straight Telugu films, but this bilingual approach was a new experience for me.
Working with Anurag Kashyap
Anurag Kashyap is an incredible director and a very versatile actor. His performance in this film is going to be special. Since both of us come from Hindi cinema, learning Telugu dialogues together was a fun and memorable experience.
On Adivi Sesh as a co-actor
Sesh is a self-made star, and working with someone like him is inspiring. He is deeply involved in every aspect of filmmaking—writing, direction, and performance. He pays attention to every detail and remains very humble.
Experience working with producer Supriya Yarlagadda
Supriya is a very kind and caring producer. Once, when I had to travel from Mumbai to Hyderabad for shooting, I fell ill. Upon learning about my health, she postponed the shoot by two days. I’ve rarely seen a producer who cares so much about the well-being of actors.
About the action and driving sequences
I absolutely love driving—I was the first girl in my family to drive a car. I’m also a big fan of action films, so getting to perform such sequences in Dacoit was exciting.
There are thrilling chase sequences, and I even had to drive an ambulance for a scene—which was quite risky as it didn’t have a handbrake. It was a challenging yet exhilarating experience.
Shooting experience
We conducted workshops for the film, though I can’t reveal much about them right now. Most of the shoot happened outdoors, especially on roads, which made the driving sequences even more thrilling.
About director Shaniel Deo
Shaniel is a fantastic director. The film is visually stunning, and the teamwork between the director, editor, and cinematographer is exceptional. The visuals have a Hollywood-style appeal, and every department has done a remarkable job.
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