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Pramila Tamrakar Tulachan is no new name in the world of theatre and film. She began her acting journey in 1993 (2050 B.S.) with the play Parityaag. Since then, she has showcased her acting prowess in plays like Malami, Thangla, Nir Maya, and Ek Chihan, as well as in films such as Dharmatma, Naike, White Sun, Panche Baja, Cha Cha Hui, and Pujar Sarki. In her latest venture, set to release on November 21 (Mangsir 7), Pramila plays the role of Maili Damini, a woman accused of being a witch. Here’s an exclusive conversation with her about her role in the film Agnidahan—
You’ve portrayed Maili Damini, who faces accusations of witchcraft. How challenging was this role for you?
Playing the role of Maili Damini, accused of witchcraft, was incredibly challenging for me because the film is based on real events. I had to bring authenticity to the character. Agnidahan stands out from all my previous films due to its unique storyline and my different role in it.
Did you have to do any character study for this role?
Yes, I spent a significant amount of time studying the character of Maili Damini. This character was quite challenging. I even went to squatter settlements to better understand and study the lives of women who face such hardships. I tried to portray the mistreatment, abuse, and social stigma faced by impoverished, single women in our society on screen.
Did you consult your family about your character?
Yes, I discussed the character with my family, and my husband was very supportive throughout the process.
After the release of the first look and trailer, what reactions did you receive regarding your character?
The reactions were very positive. Many viewers expressed sympathy for Maili Damini. Some children were even frightened by her scenes.
Why do people accuse women of being witches?
Women who are weak, destitute, poor, or alone, with no one to speak up for them, are often the ones who are accused of witchcraft.
Did the role of Maili Damini leave a lasting impact on you?
Yes, there was one particular scene where Maili Damini is force-fed human waste and beaten. That scene was extremely difficult for me to perform. I kept thinking, if it was so hard for me as an actress, how much harder would it have been for real, helpless women facing such cruelty? The emotional weight of Maili Damini’s character stayed with me for days.
How emotional did you get while portraying this character?
I became deeply emotional, especially during scenes where Maili Damini’s house is set on fire or when she is force-fed human waste. Those moments were particularly heart-wrenching.
Why should viewers watch Agnidahan?
Agnidahan is a must-watch because it is based on true events and aims to raise awareness against the harmful practice of accusing women of witchcraft. In this film, I have taken on a character very different from any of my previous roles. That’s why Agnidahan is a film worth watching.
