Bhagyashree Borse admits she first refused to slap Dulquer Salmaan for ‘Kaantha’: “I asked if I could fake it”
Mumbai, Nov 17 — Actress Bhagyashree Borse, who plays Kumari in the critically acclaimed period drama ‘Kaantha’, has opened up about one of the most talked-about behind-the-scenes moments from the film — the scene where she had to deliver multiple real slaps to co-star Dulquer Salmaan.
In a candid conversation with IANS, the actress revealed that she initially refused to hit Dulquer for real, asking the director if they could fake the moment instead.
Context: A high-pressure scene in a high-stakes film
Set in 1950s Madras, ‘Kaantha’ revolves around an intense ego clash between a celebrated director and a film superstar. The scene in question required Bhagyashree’s character Kumari to repeatedly slap Dulquer’s character during a dramatic confrontation — not once, but several times.
Recalling her hesitation, Bhagyashree said:
“It took me a lot of time. I was not ready to do it. I kept asking, ‘Can I please fake it?’ because I have never hit anybody.”
However, it was Dulquer who insisted on the realism.
“DQ really wanted that real expression to come out of him. So I had to do what my co-actor wanted me to do.”
Film reception and critical acclaim
Released on November 14, ‘Kaantha’ has been widely praised for its atmospheric recreation of the 1950s studio era and rich cinematic detailing. Directed by Selvamani Selvaraj, the film stars Dulquer Salmaan, Bhagyashree Borse, and Rana Daggubati in pivotal roles.
The film is jointly produced by Spirit Media and Wayfarer Films, with visuals by cinematographer Dani Sanchez-Lopez, music by Jhanu Chanthar, art direction by Tha. Ramalingam, and editing by Llewellyn Anthony Gonsalves.
Many critics have described ‘Kaantha’ as a “technical masterclass” and a “deeply engaging psychological drama”.
Bhagyashree’s tribute to Dulquer
Prior to the film’s release, Bhagyashree penned an emotional Instagram post calling Dulquer “a Nadippu Chakravarthy (emperor of acting)”, writing:
“It was a great pleasure acting beside you and you’ve shined in every single frame. You’re an inspiration as an actor for us all.”
Analysis: Why this moment matters
The anecdote highlights:
- Dulquer Salmaan’s method-driven approach as a performer
- Bhagyashree’s commitment to authenticity despite discomfort
- The growing shift in Indian cinema toward emotionally uncompromising performances
Such candid revelations also help audiences appreciate the craft behind emotionally charged scenes, especially in period dramas where realism is key.
Final Thoughts
Bhagyashree Borse’s honesty about her hesitation adds deeper insight into the making of ‘Kaantha’—a film already celebrated for its artistic ambition. It also underscores Dulquer Salmaan’s reputation as an actor who pushes for authenticity, even in the smallest moments. If early audience reactions are any indication, ‘Kaantha’ promises to remain one of 2025’s most discussed films — on-screen and off.
