Mouni Roy on Junoon and not being overwhelmed by success

Mouni Roy is no stranger to donning superpowers. Having won hearts as the shape-shifting serpent, Shivanya, in the popular show Naagin, it wasn’t surprising to see her give an inarguably enthralling performance as Junoon in Brahmāstra: Part One – Shiva, one of the most-anticipated movies of the year.

From being a household name from the Indian TV industry, to now being one of the most loved antagonists of Bollywood, Roy in an exclusive chat with Bazaar India talks about the love and adulation that has come her way over the years, keeping herself grounded, and much more. 

Harper’s Bazaar: There were many in the audience who commented on how, in many ways, you overshadowed the lead duo in Brahmāstra, how do you react to such praise? 

Mouni Roy: I wouldn't say I overshadowed anyone. I tell myself that I must not get too overwhelmed or excited with my success, and at the same point not be completely heartbroken over my failures. Life has taught me that change is the only constant. 

HB: Could you tell us how you bagged the role? 

MR: To begin with, I was actually really surprised that I was offered this role. After all, it had a dream cast, with all my favourite actors. That said, my role as Shivanya in Naagin probably led to me bagging the role of Junoon since Ayan (Mukerji, the director of the film) had seen my previous work. 

HB: Why do you think people have loved Junoon so much, despite her being a villain? 

MR: A major reason for this is that my fans and audiences were already used to seeing and appreciating me in a negative role. The transition was very smooth. Plus, one must not forget that Junoon was also a very well-written character who was beautiful, free, wild, and magical. 

HB: What can we expect from the character in part 2 of the movie series?  

MR: Well, I really hope Junoon is a part of Brahmāstra 2. She indeed was a very memorable character for me and the audiences, and, if brought back, I'd love to play that character all over again. So, my fingers are crossed! 

HB: How has the reception to your role and the success of the film changed you as an actor?  

MR: Like I said, I like staying down to earth. I prefer not to get overjoyed with my success, and similarly don't get too harrowed by failures either. Having said that, Brahmāstra has been one of the most fulfilling experiences as an artist and these memories will stay with me for a lifetime! 

HB: What keeps you motivated after the accolades? 

MR: I think what keeps me motivated all year round is my love for films and the fact that I'm a cinephile. The love and adulation I get from audiences motivates me to work harder and become a part of memorable cinema. 

HB: Do you spend time in self-reflection?  

MR: Taking into account my success and getting complacent is usually a sign of decline. I strive to always push my limits as an artist and I definitely think I have a long way to go and achieve a lot as an artist. 

HB: What can fans expect from Mouni Roy in the years to come?  

MR: I have a few exciting projects that I can't speak about right now, but I'm really looking forward to seeing them come to fruition. 

HB: If you weren't an actor what would you be doing? 

MR: My love for hosting people has led my husband and I to invest in a hospitality company. This is a chain that owns some of the biggest fine dining restaurants such as Taki Taki in Mumbai, Mirage Restaurant and Beach Club in Goa, Badmaash Lounge in Bengaluru, and Cafe Noir in Bengaluru and Cochi. 

HB: What are the 5 things you don't leave your home without? 

MR: I’d say my phone, a book, some food to snack on, and airpods are an absolute must along with my lip balm.

HB: Who are the designers you love and what’s your own personal go-to timeless style? 

MR: I absolutely love Sabyasachi and his work. As far as my go-to-style that I think is timeless is concerned, I’d have to say a sari and a little black dress.