‘All We Imagine as Light’ actress Kani Kusruti reveals desperation led her to 'Biriyaani' role

Actor Kani Kusruti, celebrated for her role in Payal Kapadia's award-winning film 'All We Imagine as Light,' recently disclosed her early career struggles and the circumstances that led her to take on a pivotal role in Sajin Baabu's 'Biriyaani.'
During an interview with Asianet, Kani recounted how desperation and financial difficulties influenced her decision to accept the lead role in the critically acclaimed film, a role that would eventually earn her the Best Actress award at the Kerala State Film Awards.
Kani revealed that when Sajin Baabu approached her for 'Biriyaani,' she was in a dire financial state with only Rs 3,000 in her bank account. Despite having significant reservations about the script, she was offered Rs 70,000 for the role—an amount that provided much-needed financial relief. Kani admitted that she initially advised Sajin to consider other actors, given her concerns about the script and her lack of interest in the project. However, the financial offer was too substantial to ignore, leading her to ultimately accept the role.
'Biriyaani,' released in 2020, narrates the story of Khadeeja, a married Muslim woman who is compelled to live a constrained and unambitious life within the confines of her household. The film delves into themes of religious and social oppression, highlighting Khadeeja's struggles as she is forced to suppress all her desires in the name of religion.