Sarika ends 3-year hiatus with ‘The Family I Chose’; calls it a reflection of modern times: 'It’s the reality of our times'

Veteran actor Sarika is set to return to the screen with ‘The Family I Chose,’ marking her comeback three years after ‘Uunchai’ (2022). The upcoming film, helmed by debutant director Kankana Chakraborty, delves into the evolving idea of belonging and the emotional bonds that go beyond traditional family structures, reflecting a theme that feels increasingly relevant in today’s urban lives.For Sarika, choosing a project has always been about authenticity, and ‘The Family I Chose’ offered exactly that. Speaking to Mid-Day, about what attracted her to the film, she said, “The concept resonates with the times we live in, especially in metro cities. So, the film offers the opportunity to look around and pick up nuances. The Family I Chose is not just the title, but a reality of our times that needs to be explored creatively.

”Sarika exploring emotional depthThe veteran actress further highlighted the narrative's emotional richness, appreciating how it captures human connections. “There is beauty, sensitivity, sharing, and empathy in such a family. I love how Kankana has written it,” she added, praising the director’s vision and storytelling approach that focuses on nuanced relationships.Featuring Barun Chanda alongside Sarika, ‘The Family I Chose’ follows the journey of an elderly man searching for his son.

Director Kankana Chakraborty explained, “The film weaves together themes of inherited grief, redemption, and the courage it takes to love beyond blood ties,” underlining the layered emotional arcs within the narrative.More about Sarika and Kankana ChakrabortyKankana Chakraborty found an ideal collaborator in Sarika, who quickly connected with the material. Recalling their first interaction, the director shared, “I shared the synopsis and character breakdown, and Sarika ma’am immediately asked for the script.

Within two days, we were on a call discussing her emotionally complex character, Tripti. She instinctively understood her subtext.”More about ‘The Family I Chose’The film is scheduled to go on floors in November in Gangtok and is set to achieve a unique milestone. “It’s the first feature film to be shot entirely in Gangtok,” Chakraborty revealed, adding another layer of distinction to this emotionally driven project.