Divya Dutta on channelling Amrita Pritam in Bandish Bandits 2: 'Must have asked for it with all my heart' | Exclusive

Divya Dutta, known for her nuanced portrayals, recently shared an insightful perspective on her role in the popular Prime Video series Bandish Bandits Season 2. In an exclusive interview with OTTplay, the actor shared how her character, Nandini, evoked a profound emotional response, mirroring her admiration for the renowned poet Amrita Pritam.

Poignant connection to Amrita Pritam's love story

Nandini's poignant storyline revolves around unrequited love and a connection to her lost lover, Imroz Dehlvi, played by Arjun Rampal in a moving cameo. The poetic resonance between Nandini’s arc and Pritam’s celebrated love story with Imroz feels almost fateful to Dutta.

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"Actually, you know, I did; you are so right. It is, actually, manifesting something. Because I love Amrita Pritam," she shared. Recounting an unforgettable moment, she said, "I remember when I first recited Amrita Pritam’s poetry at a Lit Fest, many people came up to me and said, 'You must play that role.'" Dutta acknowledged that she must have "asked for it with all her heart" because she is now portraying a character with similar themes.

Universe conspires to fulfill deep desires

Reflecting further, she said, "Mujhe lagta hai ke jab aap bohot shiddat se chahte hai na, universe conspire karta hai, lekin uske tareeke alag ho sakte hai" ("I feel that when you truly desire something deeply, the universe conspires to bring it to you, albeit in its own unique ways").

Nandini’s character exudes a timeless quality, delicately portraying love that is both incomplete and eternal. "I felt it was a zone I was loving," Dutta added, describing the "beautiful graph" her character follows. Her heartfelt performance pays homage to the spirit of Amrita Pritam and explores the profound layers of unfulfilled love.

Arjun Rampal's pivotal cameo as Imroz Dehlvi

The brief yet impactful appearance of Rampal as Imroz Dehlvi adds gravitas to the narrative, serving as a pivotal force in Nandini’s story. The interplay between Dutta’s and Rampal’s characters weaves a poetic effect that leaves a lasting impression. 

Divya Dutta views this role as a karmic calling, a testament to her belief in the power of manifesting dreams. As Nandini, Dutta delivers a performance that is as evocative as it is soul-stirring, marking yet another milestone in her illustrious career.

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