Bollywood actress Triptii Dimri, known for her powerful performances in films like Bulbbul and Qala, recently opened up about the criticism she faced for her role as Zoya in the 2023 hit film Animal. During her appearance at the India Today Mumbai Conclave 2024, Triptii addressed the backlash regarding her character and the film’s portrayal of toxic masculinity, misogyny, and its violent themes.
Reflecting on the complexity of her character, Triptii said, “I would approach Zoya’s character exactly the same way I did. As humans, we all have different shades — good, bad, and even ugly. Films allow us to explore these sides. Acting lets us experience a wide range of emotions, and I consider actors lucky because we get to live through so many different experiences in one lifetime.”
Animal, directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga of Arjun Reddy fame, received a mix of reactions from critics and audiences. While it was praised for its performances and box office success, it also faced severe criticism for its problematic themes. Responding to these concerns, Triptii added, “For me, I don’t like staying in my comfort zone. With Bulbbul and Qala, I found that comfort, but Animal was truly challenging. It pushed me as an actor. Every time I get a role, it feels scary and challenging. When Sandeep sir explained Zoya’s character to me, I found her to be both brave and innocent at the same time, and that excited me.”
The film, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Rashmika Mandanna, Anil Kapoor, and Bobby Deol, was a box office hit, clashing with Vicky Kaushal’s Sam Bahadur, but managed to outperform in the collections despite the competition.
Triptii’s candid remarks during the conclave shed light on her approach to acting, her willingness to take on challenging roles, and her understanding of the multifaceted nature of human characters in cinema. Fans continue to appreciate her talent, and many are eagerly awaiting her upcoming projects.