Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar's Badhaai Do explored the concept of Lavender Marriage in India for the first time. The Harshvardhan Kulkarni-directorial was hailed for its sensitive storytelling and of course, a stellar cast. Some of the remarkable moments came from the supporting cast, majorly Sheeba Chadha, who played the role of Rajkummar's naive mother Baby. In a never-seen-before character, Sheeba breathed life with her honest, relatable and 'crazy' performance.

As Badhaai Do continues to run successfully in theatres, PeepingMoon got in touch with Sheeba to know what went behind making Baby a memorable character. In the exclusive interview, the actress spoke about why lavender marriages should not be promoted and same-sex marriages should be made legal in the country. 

Excerpts from the interview:

What was your first reaction when you were approached for Badhaai Do?

I was intrigued by Baby’s character in Badhaai Do. I didn’t know anything about Lavender Marriages so that was a big reveal. The character was something I never played before. 

Do you feel Lavender Marriages should be promoted?

I hope Lavender Marriages are not promoted but same-sex marriages should be. Same-sex marriages should be made legal and normal. It shouldn't be a marginalised thing that society has made it. 

Did you meet members of the LBGTQ community and their families while working on Badhaai Do?

No, I am not that kind of an actress. There is no point in doing it because, in the film, Rajkummar's family gets to know about his sexuality in the end. 

Was it easy for you to crack an unconventional character? 

I must say, I found this character tough. As an actor, one has to quite walk a tightrope with this kind of character who seems to be a little bit crazy and loony. But clearly, she is not. It is tough to maintain realness and honesty. The writers Harshvardhan, Suman Adhikary and Akshat Ghildial have written really over the top situations. To retain the flavour while maintaining realness and not making her seem mental was tough.    

Before Badhaai Do, there were films on the LGBTQ community like Chandigarh Kare Aashiqui. Most of them tell a sensitive story with a dash of humour. Is humour the only popular way to tell stories of the LGBTQ community?

I don't think there is one set way to tell a story. It is the filmmaker's call and choice. I believe it is a way chosen by filmmakers to avoid making a film too preachy for the audience.

Do you also believe queer actors should have been cast instead of Rajkummar Rao and Bhumi Pednekar?

This is a big debate. I am sitting on the fence here. Whilst I completely understand where this comes from but I somewhere feel that it is an actor’s job to do such roles. If I would have had to direct a film like this, I would even choose my favourite actors. I don't feel anybody should be judged for that. At the end of the day, it is a story told in a performative way. If a film requires a certain type of playing and if that playing is appropriate, I wouldn’t be too judgemental about that.  

Do you believe Badhaai Do can be selected for the Oscars next year?

I hope it is.