Not About Fear, But Mind Games: Chitrangada Singh Speaks on Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders

After receiving tremendous love from audiences, Raat Akeli Hai has moved its story forward nearly five years later through its sequel Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders. The film takes viewers back into the mysterious world of the Bansal family, where secrets hidden within each character make the story even more complex. Streaming on Netflix, the film features Chitrangada Singh, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, and Deepti Naval in pivotal roles. In a recent interview, Chitrangada Singh spoke candidly about her character, the story, and what makes the sequel special. Here are the key highlights from the conversation:

How challenging was it for you to maintain mental and emotional balance while playing such a serious and layered character in Raat Akeli Hai – The Bansal Murders?

It is quite difficult. You have to balance anger, pain, and sadness all at once. But as an actor, you must control yourself, no matter what is going on inside.

After watching the film, did you feel that your scenes with any particular co-actor stood out the most?

I really liked my scenes with Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Our equation was very clear and well-defined. I felt that if our chemistry had gone a little deeper, the story could have become even more interesting—where attraction, mind games, and emotions all come into play. Apart from that, the interrogation scenes and the moment when my character discovers the family’s truth are very special to me.

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How did director Honey Trehan’s acting background reflect on set, especially in terms of casting and performances?

It makes a huge difference. Casting the right actor in the right role completes half the job even before shooting begins. Honey has so much experience that he knows exactly what he wants. In such cases, the combination of the director and casting director becomes very strong.

When the story is so dark and serious, does the same intensity carry over to the set atmosphere as well?

Yes, absolutely. This was the kind of film where you couldn’t step out of the emotional space easily. It wasn’t a dialogue-heavy film; it relied on silence and heavy emotions. Once you enter that zone, it’s very difficult to come out of it and then return to the same emotional state again.

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Has there ever been a moment when the set’s atmosphere or the presence of co-actors influenced your performance in a positive or different way?

Yes, that does happen. Some directors are very sensitive—they maintain silence and manage the atmosphere carefully. But sometimes noise or hurry can disturb a performance. As a professional actor, you have to find your own rhythm and, if needed, ask for a little time.

Is the real challenge getting into a dark role, or is it more difficult to leave that character behind and return to yourself?

Nawazuddin is truly a master of dark roles. I believe stepping into a dark character is the tougher part. On set, you’re laughing, chatting, and interacting normally, and then the moment the camera turns on, you have to dive deep into the psychological layers of the character—that transition is challenging. Coming out of it, however, feels relatively easier.

Also read:“I Was So Scared That I Had Tears In My Eyes While Doing That Scene” Says Karan Tacker

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Based on your experience, what three important pieces of advice would you give to newcomers struggling in Mumbai?

First, learn to hear “no” and not break down because of it. Second, ask yourself honestly why you want to be an actor—is it just for fame, glamour, and magazine covers, or because you truly love cinema? And third, keep working on yourself continuously. Instead of doing every project that comes your way, focus on doing good work. Even if it’s a small role or a single scene, make it memorable. Nawazuddin is the biggest example of this.

What upcoming films or web series will audiences see you in next?

Currently, I am shooting for Battle of Galwan, which stars Salman Khan. Apart from that, there is a small film that will hopefully start soon. I am also producing a biopic, in which I will not be acting.

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