Nushrratt Bharuccha had already made a name for herself in the romcom genre with films like Pyaar Ka Punchnama 1 & 2, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety and Dream Girl, but her recent release Chhorii, was something completely different from what the audience had seen her doing and that too as her first solo lead. But the actress took it up as a challenge and how. I was left awestruck with the hold she showed on her character and the story, and with this film, she has raised the bar higher for herself.
But even before Chhorii, Nushrratt started this reinvention phase earlier this year with Ajeeb Daastaans. There she played the de-glam role of a maid and really shined in her part. This avatar was a big step away from what the audience has been used to see her in as she has always made a style statement with her roles before. But the actress proved that the look doesn’t matter when it is backed by a powerful performance. She shattered any doubts the naysayers had about her and paved a new way for herself that she just solidified with Chhorii.
The young star headlined this horror film by stepping out of her comfort zone and getting into the shoes of a vulnerable yet fearless character of a pregnant woman who’s troubled by the happenings around her. While horror as a genre in itself is extremely challenging, this role for Nushraatt was both emotionally and physically demanding. Being pregnant on screen doesn’t just get done by wearing a fake belly, it also requires to get the mannerisms of a pregnant woman right, otherwise it comes out frivolous. And Nushrratt not just got the physicality right, but also the emotions that she had to portray. She had to switch between fear, happiness, sadness, claustrophobic and what not, but her transition seemed so natural that you never feel disconnected from her for even one second. This bold choice definitely paid off for her as Chhorii truly proves the actress’ prowess as a performer.
Nushrratt shines bright in every frame, giving audiences thrills and chills. You can’t help but empathize with her fear and helplessness, as she finds herself pitted against evil. With her vulnerability, intensity and courage, the actress lent believability and credibility to her character, which is very pleasantly surprising from someone who has, till date, done mostly light-hearted entertainers. The rave reviews she’s been receiving for the film only goes to show her ability to adapt to different worlds and versatile roles with credibility.
Unanimously, hailed as her career’s best performance, Chhorii sets off a new era for Nushrratt who will next be seen in content-driven films like Janhit Mein Jaari, which again she headlines, Ram Setu and Hurdang. She has some more unannounced projects in the pipeline, and it fills me with a sense of pride to see Nushrratt climb up the ladder of success, as I have witnessed her growth in front of my eyes and all this appreciation is well-deserved.