Meenu Kale: The Folk Voice of ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Poised for Prominence in Indian Cinema

With just one powerful appearance in Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies, actress and folk singer Meenu Kale has emerged as a name to remember in Indian cinema. Her brief but emotionally resonant role alongside veteran actor Ravi Kishan—and her haunting rendition of the now-viral folk song Rang Sari—have sparked a wave of interest from filmmakers, casting agents, and audiences alike.

Trained in traditional folk music and theatre, Meenu brought both authenticity and emotional depth to the screen. Her performance struck a chord, not only because of its cultural resonance but due to her nuanced, understated portrayal of a rural folk singer—making a lasting impact with minimal screen time.

“Working with Ravi Kishan sir was nothing short of inspiring,” Meenu says. “His spontaneity and command of the craft elevated every scene. Just being opposite him was a masterclass.”

Behind the scenes, it was filmmaker Kiran Rao who became a transformative force for Meenu. “Kiran ma’am didn’t just direct me—she mentored me. From holding a sur to expressing pain through silence, she reshaped my entire approach to performance,” she reflects.

Producer Romil Raj also played a crucial role in launching Meenu’s cinematic journey. “Romil sir trusted me when very few did. He gave me that one big chance every actor waits for. I’ll always be grateful for his faith,” she says.

Following the release of Laapataa Ladies, Meenu found herself at the center of unexpected attention. Her social media inboxes began overflowing with messages from fans, musicians, and producers wanting to know more about the actress whose voice and presence had left a mark.

“The response has been overwhelming,” Meenu shares. “People from across India have reached out, asking where they can hear more of my music or see me perform again. It feels surreal, but also like a validation of years of work in theatre and folk performance.”

With a strong foundation in Maharashtra’s folk circuit—having performed at numerous cultural festivals and jatra events—Meenu is now ready to bridge the gap between grassroots artistry and mainstream cinema. She is actively seeking roles that are bold, layered, and rooted in real stories.

“I want to take on roles that are not just decorative, but central to the story—roles that move something inside the audience,” Meenu explains. “There’s a space opening up in Indian cinema for artists like me, who bring a different kind of truth to the screen. I’m ready for it.”

As Bollywood continues to explore more grounded and diverse storytelling, Meenu Kale stands at the cusp of a breakthrough moment—armed with raw talent, soulful music, and the courage to tell meaningful stories.