Amritsari kudi in town

“It might have been in the ‘development process’ when Neeraj Ghaywan narrated the rough script to me, but I didn’t hesitate for a second before I took it up, as the story was an exception,” says Richa about the drama of two families trapped within the shackles of India’s rigid caste system that not just received a thunderous standing ovation at Cannes but won two awards — FIPRESCI, International Jury of Film Critics prize and Promising Future prize in the Un Certain Regard section. “I was overwhelmed and felt blessed to be a part of this historic film — the first Hindi film to ever win an award and the first Indian film to win two awards,” she gushes. The “surreal experience” of meeting the Oscar-winning French actress Marion Cotillard was icing on the cake. But the cherry on top has definitely got to be, “Walking the red carpet at the Cannes. We walked as a team all excited and I wish I could relive that moment,” she smiles about the memory that she shares with her co-actors Shweta Tripathi, Vicky Kaushal, her director Neeraj Ghaywan and one of the producers, Vikramaditya Motwane. But this is not the first time at the prestigious film festival. Richa’s role as Nagma Khatoon in the Gangs of Wasseypur 1 and 2 was critically acclaimed and the film was premiered at the Cannes.

Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in History from St Stephen’s College, Delhi and a PG diploma in social media communication from Sophia’s in Mumbai, this Amritsari kudi took to modelling, theatre and training under Barry John before her big B-Town break with Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye. “I’ve always wanted to be an actor. My parents were apprehensive but nevertheless, have always encouraged me,” she says. Bagging awards from critics and for her supporting roles, Richa has been a part of eight films – everything from Fukrey and Tamanchey to a commercial release, Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela. “I want to be part of every kind of film and don’t want to be stuck on a particular genre,” says Richa, adding that she only wants to have fun.

This free spirit will do everything from gorging on junk food, lying on the floor of her house and simply gazing at the stars, all for fun. “I also read a book, watch a film, run, swim or play with my dog to destress,” says Richa. She’s also doing a number of dance performances, “I’m working on Pooja Bhatt’s Cabaret. It’s about the a girl who becomes a dancer,” she reveals.