National Award-winning actress and singer Manasi Parekh is set to challenge traditional narratives with her upcoming Gujarati film, Shubhchintak. Known for her versatile roles in films like Kutch Express, Jhamkudi, and Dear Father, Parekh takes on a daring character in this dark comedy thriller.
In Shubhchintak, Parekh portrays Meghna, a woman who orchestrates a honey-trap to avenge her brother’s death. “It’s unlike anything I’ve done before, involving a lot of action and stunts,” she shared. This role marks a significant departure from her previous characters, showcasing her range and commitment to diverse storytelling.
The film also features Marathi actor Swwapnil Joshi, making his Gujarati debut, further emphasizing the cross-regional collaboration in Indian cinema.
Advocating for Strong Female Narratives
Parekh has consistently chosen roles that highlight women’s voices and experiences. From playing a docile wife in Kutch Express to a haunting presence in Jhamkudi, her characters often reflect depth and complexity.
“I choose films that have women in a strong space,” she stated. “It may not be a lead character, but they should have a voice—not just as a ‘group of women’; it can be a story about one or two women.” Her commitment extends beyond acting, as she actively seeks out scripts that offer meaningful roles for women.
Parekh’s dedication to female-centric narratives is evident in her production choices as well. She co-produced Kutch Express, which starred Ratna Pathak Shah, and has been involved in projects like Shubhchintak that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Elevating Gujarati Cinema
The actress believes that regional cinema, particularly Gujarati films, is experiencing a renaissance. “More people are watching regional-language films now,” she noted. “In Gujarati cinema, many new stories are being told, and I feel proud to push the bar for strong, female-led narratives.”
Parekh’s efforts have contributed to the growing popularity of Gujarati films. Her film Jhamkudi received an unprecedented number of screenings in cities like Mumbai, indicating a shift in audience preferences. “It’s a huge victory for us that we’re attracting a younger audience,” she remarked.
She also emphasized the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Drawing parallels with the success of Kannada film Kantara, Parekh insisted that Kutch Express needed to be made in Gujarati to retain its cultural essence.
Embracing Multifaceted Roles
Beyond acting, Parekh is deeply involved in the creative process of filmmaking. Alongside her husband, singer Parthiv Gohil, she co-founded the production house Soul Sutra, aiming to produce content that resonates with audiences. Their projects often explore untapped genres and narratives in Gujarati cinema.
“We are just taking risks and following our gut feeling while casting actors and making films,” she explained. Their collaborative approach has led to successful ventures like Kutch Express and Shubhchintak, showcasing their commitment to innovative storytelling.
Parekh’s versatility is further evident in her musical endeavors. She recently collaborated with Bhoomi Trivedi on the dance number Jogni, aiming to modernize Gujarati music and appeal to younger audiences.
Looking Ahead
With a series of groundbreaking projects under her belt, Manasi Parekh continues to redefine the landscape of regional cinema. Her dedication to portraying strong female characters and promoting Gujarati culture positions her as a pivotal figure in the industry’s evolution.
As she prepares for the release of Shubhchintak, Parekh remains optimistic about the future. “We’re trying to make it cool for the younger generation to speak Gujarati, sing Gujarati songs, and embrace our cinema,” she expressed. “We truly believe this change is happening.
By – Sonali