Fatima Sana Shaikh On Her Role In Aap Jaisa Koi: 'Was Interesting To Play A Bengali Woman, They Are Strong & Sensual'

The trailer of Aap Jaisa Koi, starring R Madhavan and Fatima Sana Shaikh, was unveiled by the makers at an event in Mumbai on Wednesday. Directed by Vivek Soni, the film is a family drama that delves into themes of companionship, emotional rediscovery, and what the makers call 'Barabari Wala Pyaar' - a love rooted in equality.Speaking at the event, Madhavan opened up on his return to the romantic genre. "My journey with love stories began with Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein (2001). Back then, I expressed love the way people of that age typically did," he said, recalling his breakout role opposite Dia Mirza."When Tanu Weds Manu released, it was also age-appropriate, but in this film, I got the chance to work with people who are beautiful at heart and who love the craft. Being on a set filled with so much love is a blessing for any actor. Telling an age-appropriate love story with such people is an opportunity very few actors get. When I heard this story and found out I would be playing a character over 40, I thought - why not? People of that age have love stories too. For me, it has been a beautiful journey from Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein to Aap Jaisa Koi."Fatima, who plays a Bengali woman in the film, shared her excitement. "The story is honest and beautifully layered. I’ve never played a character like this before when it comes to love. And let’s be honest - who wouldn’t want to work with Madhavan? Ask any actress! Also, Vivek has been a very good director. The film he has made is even better than how good the script was," she said.On portraying a Bengali woman, she said, "Bengali women are feisty and interesting. They are strong and feminine at the same time. They are also sensual without being crass. So, it was very interesting to play a Bengali woman, and I hope I have portrayed it well," she stated. Aap Jaisa Koi explores a nuanced romance between two individuals navigating life in their 30s and 40s. Set between the culturally rich landscapes of Jamshedpur and Kolkata, it follows Shrirenu (Madhavan), a man entrenched in routine and societal expectations, and Madhu (Fatima), a fiercely independent Bengali woman who challenges him to confront his beliefs about love, masculinity, and vulnerability.The film also delves into generational and societal pressures, emotional baggage, and personal liberation - particularly for its female protagonist.Produced by Karan Johar, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta, and Somen Mishra, Aap Jaisa Koi is slated to release on Netflix on July 11. The film also stars Ayesha Raza, Manish Chaudhari and Namit Das.