Pop icon Usha Uthup is currently busy essaying the lead role of a lonely Anglo-Indian woman in a Bengali short film.
In the 25-minute short film, she plays a character named Debra and called ‘Devi Aunty’ who is full of life and energy, but suffers from loneliness.
“I had wanted to play a role that is not typically Usha Uthup and this role gives me the opportunity,” said Usha, who had been cast as herself in some of her previous films, told PTI.
The 70-year-old singer has been featured in at least 10 films such as ‘Bombay to Goa’ (1972), ‘Bow Barracks Forever’ (2004), ‘7 Khoon Maaf’ (2011) and ‘Rock On 2’ (2016). She had also acted in a Bengali short film in 2010.
“I never seriously thought about taking up acting as a career. Music is in my blood,” said Usha who has sung songs in over 16 Indian languages.
‘Didi’, as Usha is fondly called, said she would be happy to work in more films if the roles suit her liking.
Asked about her future works, Usha said, “Talks are on in Mumbai for a Hindi feature film but I can’t divulge anything more now.”
Shooting for the short film, which also features anchor and actor Mir, is taking place at an old city building inhabited by different communities.
The film will tell the story of a Christmas dinner Usha’s character plans at her house.
Its director Sudeshna Goswami said, “None but Ushadi can epitomise such a role.”
The makers are planning to release the film on the Net on December 25.
