'Toaster': Why Patralekhaa didn't act in debut production with Rajkummar
What's the story
Actor Patralekhaa is starting a new journey as a producer with the film Toaster.
This venture marks her first foray into production with her husband and fellow actor Rajkummar Rao.
However, despite their joint venture, Patralekhaa didn't want to act in this film and instead cast Sanya Malhotra opposite Rao.
Here's why she made this decision.
Production journey
Patralekhaa's motivation to venture into film production
Patralekhaa called her move into production a "natural extension of my love for storytelling."
She said she wanted to create an environment where inspiring stories could flourish.
"Raj and I have always been passionate about cinema, and through production we hope to champion stories we genuinely believe in," she told Hindustan Times.
Production challenges
'I genuinely wanted to understand how films are made...'
The actor admitted that one of the biggest challenges in her new role has been understanding the "business side of filmmaking."
"As an actor, you're focused on your performance, but as a producer, you're responsible for everything from script development to execution," she explained.
One of her motivations for becoming a producer was to bring to life stories that weren't being offered to her as an actor.
Professional dynamics
Patralekhaa on working with husband Rao in 'Toaster'
When asked about her experience of being a producer for her husband, Patralekhaa said, "Raj and I have always had a great professional understanding, and this project only reinforced that."
"He has been incredibly supportive of my transition into production and has helped me navigate this new phase," she added.
Toaster also stars Archana Puran Singh and Abhishek Banerjee (cameo) and will premiere on Netflix.