Radhikka Madan is known for choosing unconventional, content-driven roles. Her natural flair for acting and her commitment to her craft have always been seen in her works. Presently, she has been appreciated for her work in the recently released action-drama film Subedaar, where she delivers an impactful performance as Shyama alongside thespian actor Anil. Kapoor. The film had an OTT release on Amazon Prime.
We at IWMBuzz.com got into an exclusive conversation with Radhikka over her preparation to play Shyama, and her journey living the fiery persona.
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Anil Kapoor is known for his incredible energy. What was it like trying to match that on set every day?
I think the energy that he brings to the set really rubs off on every single person. It pushes you to bring your best foot forward and give your all, because you see him doing that every single day. That is truly inspiring. It naturally makes you perform better and be more present as an actor. It was amazing to thrive in that environment with him.
Do you see any one of your own fiery attributes in Shyama?
I do relate to Shyama’s fierceness, especially the hunger she carries within her. I have that same hunger to prove myself and show people what I am capable of. I thought that hunger would reduce with every project, but it has actually grown stronger with each one. I thrive in that hunger, and I hope it continues to grow, so I can keep offering something new to the audience with every project.
How would you describe the character of Shyama, who did not need a hero in her life, even though she had her father all ready to help her?
For Shyama, there is a constant struggle of wanting to be like her mother, who she sees as her hero. She loves her, admires her, and has grown up looking up to her. At the same time, she slowly realises that she is actually very similar to her father. That realisation and acceptance form a big arc in the film. By the end, she accepts that her instincts are like her father’s, something her mother had always known. There’s a dialogue where Anil sir says that her mother used to call her father an “aafat,” and then adds that she used to say the same about Shyama too. That shows the mother always understood who she really was. But growing up, Shyama learned to fight her own battles because she saw her mother do the same, and she took great pride in that.
Creative satisfaction comes from being fully committed to the craft, regardless of where the project will eventually be seen.
Why do you think Subedaar will touch chords with the masses? Explain.
I believe Subedaar has a fine balance. It carries a strong emotional core while also offering whistle-worthy moments, powerful dialogues, and grandeur. That combination of emotion and scale is what connects with audiences, and I feel that balance will help the film strike a chord with the masses.
Looking back at your graph in films, tell us about your gratifying moments as a performer.
The most gratifying moments for me have always been on set, in front of the camera. I feel extremely grateful for the love I have received, but as an artist, the real satisfaction comes when I perform a scene where I have given my absolute all and poured my soul into it. Especially when I get to play characters that are completely out of my comfort zone, roles I once felt I could never perform. When I finally get to live those characters, that is when I feel the most fulfilled.
You have worked in the mediums of OTT, films and TV. Where do you think you get maximum creative satisfaction? Explain the phases.
For me, acting is acting, whether it is TV, OTT, theatre, or films. I don’t really look at the medium or change my process because of it. What matters to me is the script. My focus is always on giving 200 per cent to whatever I am doing. Creative satisfaction comes from being fully committed to the craft, regardless of where the project will eventually be seen.
What’s coming next for you after Subedaar?
Next, I have Lust Stories 3 with Shakun Batra, which also stars Ali. Along with that, there is Maddock’s Romey Ki Sharafat. I also have a film called Sanaa, which has already done the festival rounds and won a few international awards, and it is now nearing its release in India.
