Kolkata/IBNS: Indian actor Paoli Dam was present at West Bengal film centre Nandan for the screening of her Bengali feature film Chhaad at the 28th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) on Monday.

The film, which is directed by Indrani, explores the protagonist Mitra's relationship with Chhaad (terrace).

Mitra- played by Paoli in the film- is a teacher and a writer who finds her creativity in the terrace.

Speaking on her internal connection with terrace, Paoli said, "Terrace and balcony are my favourite places at home. So when I was offered the role, I instantly liked it and felt the concept was unique.

"I have been a part of many female-oriented films but the thought in this film was different."

In the course of the conversation over Chhaad, which was shot in peak Covid-19 pandemic, Paoli touched upon the aspects of independence as Indrani's film is, as the actor says, about "liberating oneself from inside".

"Independence comes from within. I remember I realised my independence more when I had started earning," says Paoli and adds, "Financial independence is very important for all, especially women."

The 97-minute film, which also stars Rahul Arunoday Banerjee in the lead, was screened at the KIFF under the 'Competition on Indian Language Films' category.

(Image of Paoli Dam at Nandan by Avishek Mitra/IBNS)