Renowned for her nuanced performances and bold choices, actress Konkona Sen Sharma is returning to a familiar universe in Anurag Basu’s upcoming film Metro… In Dino. Interestingly, she is the only cast member who was also a part of Basu’s 2007 acclaimed ensemble film Life in a… Metro. In an exclusive conversation with Amar Ujala, Konkona opens up about her reaction to being offered the sequel, her experience reuniting with Anurag Basu after 17 years, and her evolving journey as an actress and filmmaker.
“Didn’t Expect a Sequel Like This”
Konkona recalls her initial surprise when Anurag Basu reached out:
“When Anurag da called and said he’s making Metro… In Dino, I was genuinely shocked. I didn’t know he was working on something like a sequel to Life in a… Metro. But the moment he mentioned the script, my heart immediately said yes.”
Having never worked in a sequel before, the opportunity to do so with Basu felt like a “gift.” She emphasized her long-standing connection with the director and expressed joy at being part of a narrative continuation after nearly two decades.
“Working with Anurag da Feels Like Coming Home”
Reuniting with Anurag Basu after 17 years felt seamless for the actress:
“Working with Anurag da is like returning to an old friendship. Neither of us has really changed. Sure, our lives have evolved – my son is 14 now – but our connection, vision, and working style are still the same. It’s always incredibly easy and natural with him.”
On Sharing Screen Space with Pankaj Tripathi
Metro… In Dino also marks Konkona’s first on-screen collaboration with acclaimed actor Pankaj Tripathi.
“This is my first film with Pankaj ji, and I must say—he’s not only a brilliant actor but also a genuinely warm person. His presence brings humor alive in a very organic way. Working with him never felt performative—it was more like chatting with an old friend. His depth and honesty as an actor are truly admirable.”
On Being Typecast in Serious Roles
Known for her strong, grounded characters, Konkona addressed the long-standing perception of being typecast:
“People often say I do serious roles, and yes, I think I got typecast early in my career. But after becoming a mother, the characters I chose were more flawed, real, and human. I now prefer playing women who make mistakes and show vulnerability—because they reflect real life.”
On Challenges as a Female Director
Konkona, who has also ventured into directing, spoke candidly about her experience behind the camera:
“As a woman director, I personally didn’t face discrimination—perhaps because I was already known as an actress. However, the subject of my film was somewhat uncomfortable for audiences, which may have limited its reach. Still, I made the film I wanted, without compromise.”
She emphasized the need for more women in filmmaking:
“We need more women across all departments—direction, writing, cinematography, editing. When women tell stories, they bring a different perspective, depth, and freshness to cinema
