Mumbai: Known for her powerful performances and fearless choice of roles, Divya Dutta continues to push boundaries with Chiraiya, a thought-provoking project that confronts deeply rooted societal silences. In this compelling narrative, she essays the role of Kamlesh—a seemingly ideal daughter-in-law in a traditional household, whose world is shaken as she grapples with uncomfortable truths surrounding consent and abuse within marriage. At a time when conversations around marital dynamics and women’s agency are slowly gaining ground in India, Chiraiya stands out for its sensitive yet bold storytelling. Backed by a nuanced directorial vision and a strong ensemble cast, the project aims to spark dialogue in living rooms across the country. In this candid conversation, Divya Dutta opens up about immersing herself in Kamlesh’s layered psyche, collaborating with director Shashant Shah, the importance of telling such stories on mainstream platforms, and why storytelling today must challenge conditioning and inspire change.
Divya Dutta on ‘Chiraiya’, Breaking Silences and Portraying Kamlesh
Q: Your character Kamlesh is portrayed as the perfect daughter-in-law in a close-knit family. How did you prepare to show her internal conflict between protecting family honour and confronting uncomfortable truths about consent and abuse?
Divya Dutta: You have to completely become Kamlesh. It’s not an easy situation for any woman who is comfortable in her surroundings to suddenly take a stand and say, “I want to change something within my own home.” That shift is difficult and layered. I allowed Kamlesh to take over—Divya wasn’t there at all. I just held her hand and followed her journey as she made those tough decisions.
Q: ‘Chiraiya’ addresses marital rape and the societal silence around it—a topic rarely explored in Indian storytelling. What message do you hope viewers take away, especially about consent within marriage?
Divya Dutta: We are conditioned by many things we grow up with—beliefs, norms, even silences we accept without question. But respect, love, and mutual consent are the very basics of any relationship. These are conversations we need to bring back into focus, especially within marriages where such issues are often overlooked.
Q: How was your experience working with director Shashant Shah and co-actors like Sanjay Mishra?
Divya Dutta: Shashant is an extremely sensitive director. He understands silences, not just words. If something felt off, he would immediately sense it and address it. That’s actually at the heart of what Chiraiya is trying to say—acknowledge discomfort instead of ignoring it.
As for the team, workshops really helped. They create a space where actors can communicate openly, understand each other’s characters, and contribute creatively. It becomes a collaborative effort, and that’s when the magic really happens on set.
Q: Why is it important for OTT platforms to greenlight stories like this now?
Divya Dutta: Platforms today reach almost every household. When a story like this is told on such a wide-reaching platform, it has the power to create real impact. Even if viewers don’t consciously realize it, something shifts within them. That’s the strength of visual storytelling, and I’m glad such narratives are finally being brought to the forefront.
Q: Without giving spoilers, is there a moment in ‘Chiraiya’ that you think will stay with audiences?
Divya Dutta: I think every viewer will take away something different. For me, there’s a beautiful moment between husband and wife—very intimate and emotional—where both draw strength from each other. It’s a tender scene, and I personally connect deeply with it.
Q: You’ve often chosen roles that challenge norms. What’s next for you, and are there other social issues you’d like to explore?
Divya Dutta: I don’t plan my choices around themes consciously. For me, it’s always an instinctive decision. I need to enjoy what I’m doing as an actor. You might see me in something completely different next—and that’s what excites me about this journey, constantly exploring new characters and stories.
