Katharina Suckale, a German woman with neatly trimmed golden hair, loves India and Hindi films, and splits her time between Mumbai and Berlin. She is the co-founder of Bombay Berlin Film Production (BBFP) with actor-producer, Arfi Lamba (Fugly (2014), Singh Is Bling (2015)). They have co-produced an unconventional film Loev (English); a love story between two men!
What are your thoughts about being a woman producer who is collaborating with a male co-producer, Arfi Lamba, on an English film?
Male or female is secondary; a person should be interesting and professional like Arfi. I love the daily exchange between India and Germany.
Why have you chosen to be single?
Like the rest of my generation, I had to decide whether I wanted to work and make a career, or if I wanted to have a family. When you have a career in films, forget relationships — even friendships are difficult to maintain.
How do you explain your fascination for India and Hindi films?
I loved films with song and dance even when I was young; I enjoyed films like West Side Story (1961) and Staying Alive (1983). This genre was out of question in Germany even in the ’90s but Bollywood films thrive on it. I adore India for its variety of culture. A dynamic and positive energy reigns over the daily lives of Indians.
You have made a film about two men being in love. What prompted you to choose this subject?
I am shocked that a modern and innovative country like India refuses to see gay and lesbian relationships as a way of life.
Does the German populace more openly accept homosexuality?
Berlin is a city of three million people in which more than 70 cases of homophobic acts have been officially registered by the police in 2015. But in general, Germany is open to all kinds of sexual orientations, as long as they are not abusive.
Eleanor Roosevelt said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” What are your views?
It is easier said than done. When you grow up with the notion that you are not of much worth, you have to fight hard to shake off this belief.
Was your brother entitled to some privileges, which you weren’t?
I come from a family where my brothers had to make a career. I had to study too, but it was more important that I meet the right guy and get married.
“Make sure you have your own life before becoming someone’s wife,” said Beyonce Knowles. Do you agree?
It holds true for both men and for women. It is important to have your own life. Only when you are happy and satisfied, you can be happy with somebody else.
How do people known to you view an assertive woman?
In India, as well as in Europe, an assertive woman may be seen as rude, arrogant or hysterical. People find it easier to accept an assertive man.
What is your biggest advantage over men, if any?
I can wear skirts, but men (who want to wear skirts) have to go to Scotland.