Actress Anarkali Marikar emphasizes the need for authentic representation in films

Anarkali Marikar plays a transgender character in Shruthi Sharanyam’s directorial debut 'B 32 Muthal 44 vare' produced by the Kerala State Film Development Corporation. The film features six heroines, including Remya Nambeesan and Aswathy.

"I have been asked if I am a transgender person," says Anarkali about her role. "My character's name is Siya in the film. I had apprehensions as to how I should approach the character. I always had a tomboy look. In fact, so many people have asked me if I am a transgender person. They are also humans, and I think it is wrong to be biased towards trans people."

Anarkali also speaks about the importance of having a female director for a female-centric film. "A woman making a film for women is different from how a man makes a woman-centric film. There is a world of difference there. Only a female director can portray the issues of women realistically. This film can make some kind of impact on society."

Talking about her acting and music career, Anarkali says, "I don’t want to do every film that comes my way. I am only doing the ones I feel are good. In 'Sulaikha Manzil,' I play a traditional Muslim girl who wears a hijab. I really wanted to play that character and enjoyed playing her. I want to take up roles that no one expects from me. I am trained in classical music and love singing. If I get an opportunity to do playback singing, I will do it. Though I have sung a song with Suraj Santosh in a film, it hasn’t been released yet. I have also sung a song in ‘Amala’ and been part of a music album composed by Gopi Sundar."

Regarding her new projects, Anarkali says, "'Sulaikha Manzil' will release this month. A song from the film is already out. A film called ‘Gaganachari’ is also coming out. Currently, I am doing a Midhun Manuel film. There are a few films ready for release.