A web series based on the true story of Shreegauri Sawant, ‘Taali’ recently premiered on Jio Cinema. Sushmita Sen is portrayed in the lead role. Gauri D brings forth the backstage moments to life in a conversation with Jitendra Mhatre. Mhatre is the makeup artist who transformed Sushmita Sen’s look.
Sushmita Sen’s latest web series, ‘Taali’ is based on real-life events and struggles of transgender activist Shreegauri Sawant. Jitendra Mhatre played a key role in helping Sushmita step into the shoes of Shreegauri. In conversation, he shared the challenges that he faced while transforming Sushmita Sen’s character. This is what he had to say:
First of all, congratulations on the success of Taali. You created a bold, transgender look for Sushmita Sen. What were the challenges that you faced?
Thank you! Every moment of working with Sushmitaji was memorable. She was patient, and it was important because this was a challenging transformation. There are tiny details that need to be addressed. I think it was one of the most challenging makeup transformations I’ve done so far.
You are a prosthetics expert. How did that play a role in creating the ‘Gauri’ look?
It is a web series, so naturally, there were many shooting days. The real challenge was maintaining the continuity of the look from one scene to another. The character has to look the same in every frame. So yeah, continuity makeup was the biggest challenge that I faced.
How different is it, working with prosthetics than just relying on makeup?
Working with prosthetics is definitely a different experience. It looks and feels more natural than loud makeup. With makeup, you have to use heavy and loud cosmetics to achieve the same effect, and it is evident. With prosthetics, you get to experiment more and achieve a more natural look, which looks great on screen.
What details did you have to pay close attention to while doing makeup?
It’s the tiny details that matter. We had to hide her natural eyebrows and carve new ones. We also extended the side lock, to achieve the look that is suitable for the character. Then there was a shadow of a beard that we put in using some green shade. It was quite challenging.
We also had to cover up tattoos. That is an important part of the assignment.
When will we get to see more from you on screen?
I am working with Randeep Hooda sir on the Swatantra Veer Savarkar movie. There are some more projects in the pipeline and will have more, hopefully soon.
Swatanta Veer Savarkar, starring Randeep Hooda is set to release in September 2023.
