Trigger warning: This article contains references to sexual abuse.
Anushka Sharma’s production venture Bulbul is one of the best period horror films to have released in recent years. Starring Tripti Dimri in the lead role, Bulbul proved to be a turning point in her career. Directed by Anvita Dutt, the 2020 film also featured Rahul Bose, Avinash Tiwari, Paoli Dam and Parambrata Chattopadhyay. Remember Tripti and Rahul’s heartbreaking rape scene that sent shivers down our spines upon release? Rahul Bose recently recalled becoming a ‘beast’ during the rape scene with Tripti in Bulbul and told the actress that if she ever felt unsafe, she could tell him.
During a new interview with Siddharth Kannan, Rahul Bose recalled his experience of working with Tripti Dimri in Anushka Sharma’s Bulbul. The senior actor shared how he felt shooting the rape scene might upset Tripti, so he asked her to use a safe word, i.e. his name, Rahul.
Calling it a “tough scene” in which the actress’ character dies in bed, Rahul recalled that he told Tripti that if the actress ever felt unsafe in bed with him, she could say his name out loud and he would stop doing it.
He recalled that he told her, “Because when the camera says action I will turn into a beast, so if it excites you she should just say Rahul and I will stop and be like this (normal); don’t worry.”
The Dil Dhadakne Do actor praised Tripti, saying she is a strong, focused, kind and talented actress. Rahul further added that working with her was a pleasure. The senior actor described their working relationship as “lovely”.
In Bulbul, Tripti Dimri played the role of Bulbul Choudhary, a former child bride. Rahul Bose had dual roles, Thakur Indranil Choudhary/Mahendra Choudhary, the first of which was Bulbul’s husband. Avinash was Indranil’s younger brother and Satyajit Thakur, Bulbul’s childhood friend.
Disclaimer: If you need help or know someone who is experiencing domestic violence, assault or abuse, please reach out to your nearest mental health professional, NGO or talk to someone about it. There are many helplines available for this.
Also read: Not Tripti Dimri but this actress was first approached for Anvita Dutt’s Bulbul; Know why she turned it down
