Neha Dhupia Embraces The Deglam Look

MUMBAI- Actress Neha Dhupia is stepping into a new space with her debut international film ’52 Blue’, in which she will be seen in a deglam avatar for the first time on screen. She said going makeup-free for the role was never a concern and instead felt liberating.

Neha said, “‘52 Blue’ has been one of the most deeply moving and transformative experiences of my career. When I first read the script, what stayed with me was the quiet strength of the mother. She doesn’t speak loudly, but her presence shapes her son’s entire world.”

’52 Blue’ is a coming-of-age drama that follows a young Indian football enthusiast’s journey as a migrant worker to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The film is produced and directed by Ali El Arabi under his banner Ambient Light, based in Cairo and Los Angeles.

The film explores themes of identity, aspiration and resilience against an emotional family backdrop.

Neha said playing a mother to a young man for the first time was both challenging and fulfilling.

“Because it required me to tap into emotions that are raw, instinctive, and deeply human.”

She added, “The deglam aspect of the role was never a concern for me; in fact, it was liberating. It allowed me to completely shed any layers of vanity and immerse myself fully into the life of this woman — her silences, her resilience, and her unconditional love.”

“There’s something very powerful about portraying a character who finds strength in vulnerability.”

Speaking about working with Ali El Arabi, Neha said, “His storytelling is so honest and rooted, and he creates an environment where you feel completely safe to explore and push your boundaries. Shooting in Kochi, in such a unique and intimate setting, added so much authenticity to the film.”

She added that at its heart, “‘52 Blue’ is a story about dreams, about breaking free, and about the invisible forces like a mother’s belief that shape who we become.” (IANS)