Madam Chief Minister: Richa Chadha pens an open letter after the incessant trolling

Richa Chadha has been one of those few actresses in recent time who hasn’t shied away from calling a spade a spade. She has always made sure to talk about political things, and also opened up about her varied choice of movies. She has, however, received a lot of flak from time to time about her choices and has been trolled as well for the same. Even with her latest film Madam Chief Minister, she has got a lot of flak from audiences, and there has been no stopping her from hitting back at the trolls.

As the film released today, Richa has shared a final note on her thoughts about all the controversies surrounding Madam Chief Minister. Here’s her open letter:

Parting thoughts

The film releases across the country and abroad today. Still reading some very angry tweets, threads about myself, (not the film yet, no one has seen it). Some people are just venting. And that’s ok.

I am listening, learning… as I have been attempting to, for the past 2-3 years…

Here, some thoughts on the representation debate, from my limited, self-admittedly privileged understanding. The anger is completely understandable, especially with the poster et al. I get it. I understand this anger. But as is often the case with anger, it is in fact misdirected since I am not the sole creator of this film. Hundreds if not thousands of people have worked on it.

I can’t undo historical caste injustices, or brutalisation dating back thousands of years.

Don’t expect me to become a scholar or expert on the subject, by acting in one film, especially when it is as vast and complicated as caste and varna.
I don’t even contest the fact that my performance will never ever be able to replicate the lived experience of a DBA actor. I am aware of that and it only made me work harder.

As someone who is an artist, who considers herself an ally, I choose to do whatever little I can, in my capacity as an individual. I have attempted to play this part with dignity, honesty and empathy. As that was frankly the only thing in my control.

(*and this empathy isn’t charity or patronisation. Am also not confusing trolls/death-threat givers/fake-news spreaders for genuine voices).

Also Read: Richa Chadha receives death threats for Madam Chief Minister; actress hits back with, “Hum Nahi Darrte”

Prateek Sur

Born a Movie Buff, working as a Film Critique and enjoying life as a Bollywood Reporter.

Email: editor@bollywoodbubble.com Phone: +91 8355910465