Exclusive: Kalki Koechlin to play a DJ in her first web series

Based on Goan mafia and the politics of drugs, Kalki Koechlin’s next is a web series titled Smoke. “I get to play a Portugese-Goan DJ and this is my first web series. I enjoy trying new experiences in my career but this one was tough. We’ve shot at night and in places where it isn’t easy to put up cameras,” says Kalki and admits that she is no longer offered ‘exotic’ roles.

“It all came together somehow in my career. Today I’m busier than ever, doing so many different things,” says Kalki who has a new film Mantra directed by Nicholas Kharkongor set for release.

“Like many of my recent films, Mantra is also directed by a debutant. This has become a kind of pattern in my film career lately. I end up working with new directors, and I enjoy collaborating with them. They’re open to ideas, discussions and arguments. There’s more give-and-take on the sets,” admits the actress.

Nicholas is from the North East India but is currently based out of Delhi. “He is a good writer and has struggled for years to get the funds. When we finally managed to get the money, we somehow completed the film,” informs Kalki.

That’s the tragedy of independent cinema in India, a genre that Kalki has embraced unconditionally. Not that she is averse to doing commercial films. “But no one offers me commercial films. I’d love to do an out-and-out comedy. If it doesn’t happen, maybe I’ll write it myself. I’ve always believed in making things happen for myself,” she says with a smile.

However, Kalki has no plans to turn director anytime soon. “It’s too much responsibility, which I don’t think I am ready to take on. Cinema is a visual medium and I am happy to be in front of the camera, at least for now,” she signs off.