SVF

When Yash and Mimi met trafficking survivors

A male lead, who is four films old and enjoys superstardom, a leading lady, who is on the verge of entering a political career, took time out from their hectic schedules for the real heroes of society recently. Yash and Mimi Chakraborty, gung-ho about their upcoming film, Shagufta Rafique’s Mon Jaane Na, were seen chatting up the survivor leaders of a non-profit organisation that helps trafficked women undergo healing. “We have met before too and they spoke beautifully on their work that time,” said Mimi, as soon as they settled down for a chat at a south Kolkata café.

The women were thrilled to have the duo with them. They happened to be trafficked when really young and have grown into strong, independent individuals over the years. “It was not easy to overcome the trauma. The dance movement therapy that I started has helped me evolve as a person and made many others emerge stronger from such unfortunate incidents,” said Sreeja Debnath, one of the founders of the dance movement therapy. It was through this practice that she, along with Sabita Debnath, took charge of the mental and emotional well-being of the trafficking survivors. “We have two students with us today, but they are also working in the same capacity as survivor leaders now,” said Sabita.

Their inspiring stories moved the stars. Yash even wanted to know what needs to be done to support the organisation. “Can I have a brochure to refer to your work? I’m keen to know more,” he said. They hurriedly passed on the printed information and were curious to know whether the two will attend their dance programme. “I’d love to, provided my dates are not blocked beforehand,” Yash said with a smile.

In spotless white shirts paired with denims, Mimi and Yash looked ready for a series of film promotional visits they were to make. But they almost lost track of time while catching up on these women’s lives. “Playing a demure girl-turned-reckless drug addict in Mon Jaane Na required a lot of research. Meeting these strong women today was so inspiring. I hope we will be able to arrange a special screening for them,” said Mimi, before she rushed off to a meeting with the CM.

Their adda seemed to be never ending as Yash shared some shooting stories. The women threw a volley of questions at him, which the actor answered patiently. The mutual respect for each other’s work and exchanging pleasantries lighted up the café ambience. “I play a mature person with subtle characteristic nuances. For the most part, it’s a sad story of struggle. We have done away with hero-like entries in this film. The social message is a natural development in the script, so it doesn’t appear forced or preachy,” said Yash, adding, “Cinema can create a lot of awareness on topics like drug abuse and trafficking. But it’s up to the people to remain well-informed.”