For the role of Josef, Lulu (Susant Misra) chose Subrat as he had earlier worked with him. All I knew about him was that he had graduated from the National School of Drama. Lulu was sure that he was the right actor for the titular role, and I trusted instincts.
My first meeting with him was just before we started shooting the film in Ranikhet. My son, the assistant executive producer, had mentioned that he was rehearsing his dialogues under a blanket. Our guess was he wanted to concentrate on getting into character and didn’t want even light to distract him. He got completely immersed in the role he had been chosen to play.
Almost immediately after meeting him, I had to shoot a scene alongside him. He made me, as a first-time actor, feel completely at ease in front of the camera, and working with him was a complete joy.
I was amazed at his commitment towards his work. There was a method to his acting that we were astounded by. So much so that all through the shoot, he was dressed in Josef’s jacket. I don’t remember him taking it off even once until we completed our shooting.
He is truly a Director’s actor.
Thank you Subrat for your contribution to my maiden film production. Your support before, during, and after has made this film a success.