I'm not copying Bipasha in 'Trishna': Rituparna Sengupta

By Sreya Basu, Kolkata, Sep 6 : Rituparna Sengupta is all set to sizzle in the Bengali remake of Bipasha Basu-John Abraham-starrer Hindi film 'Jism', but she says that unlike the Bollywood actress it would be a challenge for her to play 'a sexy loner' convincingly in 'Trishna'.

"I'm not copying Bipasha in 'Trishna'. It is no doubt a remake of 'Jism', but there are certain differences," Rituparna, who is paired opposite newcomer Angshuman in the film, told IANS.

"Bipasha did the film at the beginning of her career and people found it easier to identify her with her character in the film. But look at me... I have done so many roles over the last 10 years and it will be challenging for me to fit in the role of a sexy loner," she said.

Rituparna has gone in for a complete makeover for the film by debutant director Pritam Jalan.

"My fans will find me in a completely new avatar with curled hair, smoky eyes and skimpy clothes. I'm sure this film is going to set a new trend in the Bengali film industry.

"My character Piyasha is one synonymous with desire. So I spent long sessions with fashion designer Suchismita to decide my costumes in the film. For the first time you will find me doing lots of skin show. But I have not done anything beyond my comfort level."

Shooting for the film has already begun in Kolkata and its suburbs.

Asked whether West Bengal's orthodox audience would accept her in her new bold avatar, Rituparna said: "I'm not sure. Honestly speaking, the film is so irresistible that I'm risking my hard-earned reputation by doing it. But I have full faith in my fans."

Of late Bengali filmmakers have been influenced by Bollywood movies and now this remake. Does it mean it is running short of ideas?

"I don't agree. In fact, the Bengali film industry is becoming more balanced between creativity and commercialisation. And if Bollywood can remake south Indian and Hollywood films, why can't we do so! After all, what matters is entertaining the audience with good movies," she quipped.

Rituparna debuted in the Hindi film industry with "Main Meri Patni Aur Woh" and later featured in "Sirf". She is also doing Manish Gupta's "Saab Chai Pani", Kalpana Lajmi's woman-oriented "Mujhe Rang De" with Isha Koppikar and Srinivas's "Love Game" in which she is paired opposite Randeep Hooda.

Bipasha and John's off-screen chemistry worked as a catalyst for their on-screen pairing in "Jism". But Rituparna says she feels more sisterly towards actor Anshuman.

"Anshuman is a newcomer and very shy. During the steamy scenes he used to go literally red. I won't say he is my brother because that will send wrong cues to people, but I do feel sisterly towards him," she said.