Overview

• Kajol initially declined Dushman because she did not want to portray on-screen molestation or rape that would force her to relive trauma while acting
• Pooja Bhatt and Tanuja Chandra convinced her by promising a safe environment, strict respect for her boundaries and the use of a body double for sensitive scenes
• Released in 1998, Dushman was Kajol’s first double-role film and featured Ashutosh Rana, Sanjay Dutt, Tanvi Azmi and Kunal Kemmu in pivotal parts
• The psychological thriller earned widespread critical acclaim for its narrative depth and performances and has since attained cult status in Indian cinema
• Kajol’s reflections on Dushman coincide with her recent success in the horror film Maa and her upcoming appearance in Sarzameen