Seema Biswas on Phoolan Devi: "I would have died if I was her"

• Actress Seema Biswas, celebrating her birthday, is renowned for her impactful portrayal of Phoolan Devi in the 1994 film Bandit Queen.
• Born in Nalbari, Assam, Biswas's theatre background prepared her for the raw and indelible performance that redefined Indian cinema's depiction of trauma and strength.
• Biswas stated, "Phoolan Devi was a strong woman. If I were in her place, I would have died enduring what she suffered," highlighting the emotional toll of the role.
• She described a psychological overlap, feeling "Seema was Phoolan and Phoolan was Seema" during filming, explaining the performance's authenticity.
• A harrowing chase scene where she almost drank poisoned water, seeing a dead body, made her feel "as if it was my own dead body," showcasing the film's visceral impact.

Why It Matters: Seema Biswas's portrayal of Phoolan Devi in Bandit Queen was a deeply immersive and impactful performance.