Bold, independent and unafraid to speak her mind, the character of Barkha from Matka King instantly struck a chord with Sai Tamhankar. Add filmmaker Nagraj Manjule to the mix, and it became an experience she deeply cherished.

“Looking at our history, if a female artiste is given somebody’s wife’s role, we make the general assumption that she will be ornamental. When I read [the script], I thought a female, standing up for herself and exercising her voice was very interesting,” shares the actor. “I think this is boldness for me — exercising your independence and putting out your voice. I like such women. It’s a big deal in that era. So, I was happy to play the character because she has her own journey.”