Priyanka Setia, known for her roles in 'Sacred Games' and the recent horror series 'Khauf', has opened up about the fears women face in contemporary society. In a recent interview, the actress discussed how the pervasive sense of unease that women experience daily often translates into real-life anxieties, especially when alone.
Setia, who has a diverse background including work as a flight attendant, modeling, and theatre, transitioned to OTT series and films. Her filmography includes 'Hawaizaada', 'Begum Jaan', 'Aranyak', 'Rudra: The Edge of Darkness', and 'Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai', showcasing her versatility across genres. However, it was her role in 'Khauf' that prompted her to reflect on the deeper, more unsettling aspects of being a woman in today's world.
In 'Khauf', Setia plays Rima, a character grappling with patriarchy and societal expectations. Rima faces immense pressure from her in-laws and husband to bear a male child, leading to significant turmoil in her marriage and overall existence. Setia revealed that all the characters in 'Khauf' exemplify individuals suffering from real-life traumas. She prepared for the role by emotionally and mentally aligning herself with the character's struggles.
"There's a fear of being a girl," Setia stated, highlighting the vulnerability women often feel. She recounted a recent personal experience of driving alone at night, underscoring the heightened awareness and caution women must exercise in such situations. This fear, she suggests, is deeply ingrained and stems from societal structures and prevalent attitudes towards women.
'Khauf', created by Smita Singh, delves into the psychological trauma experienced by women, using the horror genre to explore the pervasive violence they face. The series revolves around four women in a Delhi hostel who believe they are haunted by a malevolent spirit. According to Setia, what makes 'Khauf' noteworthy is the humanity of its characters; they are all dealing with some form of trauma.
Setia's decision to be a part of 'Khauf' was influenced by the script's quality and Smita Singh's involvement, whose work she had previously admired in 'Sacred Games'. She also shared that she is a horror buff. Although she didn't have any eerie experiences on set, she experienced heightened anxiety during the shoot, possibly due to the emotionally taxing nature of her character.
Priyanka Setia's career choices reflect her dedication to meaningful storytelling and her commitment to portraying complex characters. Her performances are infused with a soulful depth, establishing her reputation as a dynamic performer with an authentic edge.
