TODAY -

"People Will See Me As Daniel Martin, Not Sachinker": Sachinker Sagolsem About Working In 'Oneness'

Brainee Hijam *

 Sachinker Sagolsem as Daniel Martin
Sachinker Sagolsem as Daniel Martin .



When the trailer for Priyakanta Laishram-helmed Oneness came out, it broke the internet. Produced by Roushil Singla and Priyakanta Laishram while starring Maya Choudhury, Priyakanta Laishram, Suraj Ngashepam, and Sachinker Sagolsem in the lead roles, standing ovations should be given to the entire team for having the guts to make the first gay-themed Manipuri film in the state of Manipur, knowing the countless unfavorable reactions they would face from a society that is still largely ignorant of sexual identities.

Sachinker Sagolsem, who plays the antagonist in the film, discusses his experiences while filming Oneness in this interview:

1. You essayed on the role of "Daniel Martin" in Oneness. How did you manage to get the role? What did you feel when you first heard about the role?

To land the part in Oneness, I did not have to do much. Nevertheless, in 2019, it was challenging to get a role in Priyakanta's movies. I went to the audition when I heard about the call for his 2019 film Spaced Out - Panthung Di Kadaaida!, and fortunately I was chosen for the part of a drug addict.

I entered Priyakanta Productions in this manner. At the Human Rights & Social Issues Film Festival 2019, Tokyo, I was eventually nominated for Best Supporting Role. So, for Oneness, I feel that getting the part of "Daniel Martin" was all Priyakanta's love and belief in me. I was on cloud nine the day I learned I had been selected for this role, so ecstatic was I that I had completely forgotten my upcoming exam.

2. What preparations have you made for this role? How was the process?

I conducted a thorough character analysis and had to work on my accent to embody the role of "Daniel Martin". I also neglected to cut my hair, beard, or mustache for about three months at that time. We conducted a look test a few weeks before the shoot, which I believe was one of the firsts in the history of Manipuri cinema to go through the entire procedure.

Priyakanta gave us excellent insights on how to deliver dialogue more effectively. We had grooming sessions with Priyakanta on Zoom meetings about three to four times a week, during which I learned a lot more. I also experienced moments during rehearsing where I was on the verge of passing out as I delivered the harsh lines with expression. Since then, I realized this character would be exceedingly difficult.

3. The film has already made history by being the first ever Manipuri film based on same-sex relationships. How do you feel being a part of such a landmark movie?

For all of Manipur, it is undoubtedly a reason for great pride. Above all else, it is pretty unique to feel that we are contributing to the development of Manipuri cinema and also making history.

 Sachinker Sagolsem as Daniel Martin
Sachinker Sagolsem as Daniel Martin .



4. Do you think Oneness will lead to more awareness, discussions, and understanding regarding the LGBTQ Community in Manipuri society? Tell us your opinions.

Yes, absolutely and we need innumerable audiences for that. I am concerned about whether or not a large audience would show up to the movie theaters to see the movie, though, as the culture of going to the movies is steadily dying in Manipur.

Nevertheless, I firmly feel that the movie is excellent and that it might have a very great impact on the general public. I believe that this movie will carry the torch for how one should view people of different genders and sexual orientations, and I am extremely glad to have been a part of it.

5. Priyakanta Laishram is considered one of the best filmmakers. How does it feel like working with him? Tell us more about your relationship with him.

One of the best filmmakers in Northeast India is Priyakanta Laishram. In everything, he conducts in-depth research. Priyakanta spends time and effort on his story and screenplay, in contrast to how others in the Manipuri film business operate, and he provides his actors with in-depth character exposition and insights. His top priority is always good table work. He possesses all the traits of an honest filmmaker.

He is not only a friend to me, but also a teacher. Since I was little, I've wanted to be an actor, and thanks to him, I was able to realize that ambition. He always offers me real guidance when I'm unsure how to act or perform my lines. Because of that, I am also able to grow my YouTube career.

6. What have you learned as a person and as an actor by being a part of Oneness?

Oneness has taught me that we should never discriminate against others based on their gender or sexual orientation. In addition, I've picked up a lot of do's and don'ts that I never had the chance to learn before.

When it comes to acting, I also had several fresh experiences, such as the time I felt like really passing out while playing the part and learning how to adapt to the role. The most significant lesson I took away was how crucial honest effort and dedication are if one wants to succeed as an actor.

 Sachinker Sagolsem and Priyakanta Laishram
Sachinker Sagolsem and Priyakanta Laishram



7. Tell us some of your best memories/instances from your journey of Oneness.

I love the fact that every single actor was highly committed, and Priyakanta also gave us the best guidance. Since I reside in Charangpat, which is a very remote location from the Imphal region where the movie was filmed, I always returned home after the filming very late at night, which was also the time when the condition of the Imphal-Thoubal highway was at its worst.

However, Priyakanta always took the time to phone me and inquire about my safety upon returning home. If not Priyakanta, then Tina Laishram, his assistant director, called. Despite having a very limited budget, our team was incredibly sweet.

When I was portraying the character, I had to keep my hair uncut for three months while I awaited the look test, and then for another 2.5 months after that, I had to keep up the same appearance to maintain the film's continuity. What a difficult task that was!

8. Do you have any expectations, in terms of how the audience would react to your role in Oneness ?

I feel like even my mother would despise me after watching the movie. I mostly make humorous videos and vlogs on YouTube. That is not at all like what I have in this movie. Everyone will likely be astonished after seeing the film, in my opinion. Sincere to say, even I get frightened just by looking at the character. In the movie, I believe people will see me as Daniel Martin, not Sachinker.


* Brainee Hijam wrote this article for e-pao.net
The writer can be reached at braineehijam(AT)gmail(DOT)com
This article was webcasted on 24 August 2023.



* Comments posted by users in this discussion thread and other parts of this site are opinions of the individuals posting them (whose user ID is displayed alongside) and not the views of e-pao.net. We strongly recommend that users exercise responsibility, sensitivity and caution over language while writing your opinions which will be seen and read by other users. Please read a complete Guideline on using comments on this website.




LATEST IN E-PAO.NET
  • Sagol Kangjei Esei #1 : Gallery
  • Violence in Manipur 2023 :: News Timeline
  • Featured Front Page Photo 2023 #5: Gallery
  • Petition to Rectify UN PR surpasses 100000
  • Workshop : Integration of Social Change
  • Homemade face packs with honey
  • Indo-Naga Talks (From 2012) :: Timeline
  • Where have the guns come from ?
  • Securing future for the next 1000 years
  • Oinam Chaoba Devi: Sepak Takraw : Gallery
  • Mirik Memories
  • Program Explores Gender & Mental Health
  • Ensuring proper sanitation as careers
  • Purul Paoki (Paddy Plantation) #2 : Gallery
  • Young Adulthood: A Blank Canvas
  • Demand for Naga Flag, Constitution are hurdle
  • Meitei Alliance officially launched [Upd]
  • Indian fisheries : The sunrise sector
  • The descent of Radha-Krishna #12: Download
  • 6th NE Fashion Week : Final Report
  • Misuse of medicines is making infections ...
  • A unique initiative by Coal & Lignite PSUs
  • Relief Materials @Moirang : Gallery
  • Plant disease management in organic farming
  • AMEA - 40th foundation day
  • HPV Vaccination Services launched
  • 40th Foundation Day AMEA : Gallery
  • 43rd Foundation - Manipur Women's college
  • Is Myanmar on the brink of 'breaking apart'
  • Guideline for preparation of UPSC exams
  • Art Exhibition: RKCS Art Museum #3 : Gallery
  • Growing call to find all TB to stop TB
  • Ethnic strife in Manipur :: Poem
  • Meitei 'Tribal', almost ST now
  • Honouring tribal tradition and pride
  • Questions on sticking to SoO
  • Pinning hopes on justice delivery system
  • Naga-Kuki Clash 1992-94
  • Volcanoes of India
  • Climate in 2023, a tipping point for crisis
  • Day 3: 6th NE Fashion Week
  • Photography & Creative Writing Contest
  • Time to go after the big fishes
  • Political insensitivity to suffering of citizens
  • Interview : Ayekpam Maipak (Sepak Takraw)
  • Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival
  • Technologies in veterinary extension services
  • National Integration & Social Harmony
  • Paradox of ignorance & quest for knowledge
  • More than sighting a flying object
  • Seeking central help to end conflict
  • Relief Materials @Phubala : Gallery
  • Adolescence Crisis
  • European Higher Education Virtual Fair
  • Day 2: 6th NE India Fashion Week
  • Will govts firewall health from Big Tobacco
  • Missed call campaign from MTU
  • Questioning the legitimacy of Kuki history
  • The descent of Radha-Krishna #11: Download
  • For Whom the Bell Toll ?
  • Cancer Awareness at Imphal East
  • Winter Relief for IDPs at Moirang
  • Licypriya to miss UN Climate in Dubai
  • Careers related to controlling diabetes
  • Relief Materials @Sawombung : Gallery
  • Those responsible for 'removal' of RN Ravi...
  • Relief Distribution at Sawombung
  • JAC against Brutal Killing of Birchandra
  • National Lok Adalat at Lamphelpat
  • India's UPI: Global front-runner in digital
  • The ill-logic of ITLF's self-rule declaration
  • Frustrated call for 'self rule'
  • Sonia Khundrakpam: Yuva Puraskar Award
  • Moirangthem Nilamani: Lifetime Achievement
  • The Power of Poppy - 9 :: Poem
  • Maipak Inka: 1st Inpui Christian Convert
  • Cancer Awareness & Screening at Thoubal
  • World Diabetes Day 2023
  • The self-rule ultimatum of ITLF
  • Debate over ST for Meiteis demand
  • Designate Moreh as a Special Admin Zone
  • Relief Distribution at Keibi Heikakmapal
  • Black Rice & Glycemic Index
  • Innovative nanofertilizer for green agriculture
  • Art Exhibition: RKCS Art Museum #2 : Gallery
  • Surviving Pre-adolescence
  • Ride Against Narco Conspiracy
  • 15th Manipur State Film Award 2023 Results
  • In the stillness of night :: Poem
  • Skincare essentials for travellers
  • Dark Diwali & Fasting Chakkouba
  • Killing two birds with one stone ?
  • Morning : Mera Houchongba #1 : Gallery
  • Ningol Chakouba Funds to Support IDPs
  • A book & a story for the kids
  • World Diabetes Day - 2023
  • Burning hay is suicidal for farmers
  • NCC Car Rally - Nagaland Leg
  • Tasks before the Government
  • The sound of silence - missing teens
  • Tangkhul legends & Tenimiyas
  • Catch them Young! Early Childhood
  • Merciless November :: Poem
  • Free Eye Camp on diabetic retinopathy
  • Ningol Chakkouba or Chakkoudaba
  • Internal displacement, not separation
  • An indication to road ahead
  • Manipuri Student in Bangladesh : Gallery
  • Meeting with SABF, NID & CCU Taiwan
  • Livelihoods Development Program for IDPs
  • NSUD Diamond Jubilee Celebration at Delhi
  • Sleep :: T Lingcholi Sangtam
  • Disaster Management as Career
  • Mass rally demanding NRC #2 : Gallery
  • Licypriya appears in CBSE textbook
  • Mapam Lamdam Chatnatha :: Poem
  • Absurd rebuttal of Shimray
  • Rebuttal to article "Meitei's exclusion"
  • Writing India's growth with logistics efficiency
  • A place of pride on the medals tally
  • Time for India to rethink on its balancing act
  • Promoting Chakhao : Manipur's Black Rice
  • Truly powerhouse of sports : Manipur
  • Scholarship for Nursing & Paramedical
  • Legal Services Day & Commendation
  • Cancer Awareness at MU
  • Digital Library for the benefit of students
  • Drop the two Ministers
  • The bane of prolonging internet shutdown
  • Interview with Shanglakpam Nilakanta
  • Successful fruiting of Thailand Yongchak
  • 5 selected to attend 54th Intl Film Fest
  • Know your pest : Spiralling Whitefly
  • Flagging off ceremony of Mobile Van
  • World food India 2023 & beyond
  • Disturbing writings on the wall
  • At odds with the SoO pact
  • Guard of honour: Anand Kumar #2 : Gallery
  • Relief Services @Serou : Gallery
  • 6th North East India Fashion Week
  • Know more about canine parvovirus
  • Preventing Exploitation of Environment in War
  • Missing : The thread that connects
  • The right way to deal with miscreants
  • Hope Fest, for people displaced #2 : Gallery
  • The Power of Poppy - 8 :: Poem
  • Tokhu Emong: Post Harvest Fest of Lotha
  • Mizoram: AAP leaders from Nagaland ..
  • Theatre Workshop & Book Review
  • Hand-over Moreh to Army
  • Manipur needs to come to her senses
  • Capitalising on Manipur crisis
  • Mass rally demanding NRC #1 : Gallery
  • The Sentinelese, World's Lonely Tribe
  • Mental Health and our Environment
  • Condemns Committee's Highhandedness
  • Beauty tips for the perfect Diwali look
  • Lying for a lost cause
  • Is internet ban the answer ?
  • The descent of Radha-Krishna #10: Download
  • The last gaze- makes millions weep :: Poem
  • Which is responsible- greed or grievance
  • Felicitation of Awangbow Newmai
  • Let's safeguard our heritage through AV
  • Garo Language in Eighth Schedule
  • Mera Houchongba #2 : Gallery
  • Time's ceaseless voyage :: Poem
  • Vegetable/ fish IFS by using water tank
  • World Food India 2023
  • Leap for higher education in India
  • Defang the militants
  • Decoding objection to state force deployment
  • Guard of honour: Anand Kumar #1 : Gallery
  • Meira Paibis- between violence & narratives
  • Winter Relief Services : Gallery
  • Meetei ST Status: An artificial Controversy
  • The Human Mind Unravelled :: Review
  • Detecting illegal immigrants
  • Who is responsible for death of Moreh SDPO
  • Ayekpam Maipak (Sepak Takraw) : Gallery
  • Condemn cowardly killing of Moreh SDPO
  • SC Jamir recalls encounter with BK Nehru
  • Veganism- big way to save environmental
  • The essence of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas
  • Time to act with an iron fist
  • Dragging on for nearly 180 days
  • Water as cultural symbol of Meiteis
  • Condemn the brutal act at Moreh
  • The Power of Poppy - 7 :: Poem
  • Tuesday holiday not Friday !
  • Relief at Temporary Shelter Home
  • Ningthamtha changlakpagi relief camp
  • The politics of conflict : Why is AR here ?
  • Role of fringe elements in prolonging crisis
  • Chaga Ngee: Age-Old festival of Liangmai
  • November Calendar for Year 2023 : Tools
  • Kolkata, the Roshogolla City
  • Breast Cancer Awareness at Khwairamband
  • Career for women in police
  • What to do when your dog is poisoned
  • Ensuring rule of law matters more than ever
  • Mind your common sense: Carcass in Loktak
  • Bor khoiramba @Hiyangthang #2 : Gallery
  • When will we start caring for our caregivers?
  • For those who stood :: Poem
  • Meetei exclusion from ST- queer controversy
  • Visit to relief camps : Gallery
  • Signature campaign: Rectify UN press release
  • Winter Relief @ Kakching : Gallery
  • Tarpon chaklen @Andro #1 : Gallery
  • 4th Rongmei Freshers' Meet (Delhi)
  • Shanglakpam Nilakanta (Hockey) : Gallery
  • Rally against Narco-Terrorism #4 : Gallery
  • Students Murder Protest [Sep 27] #3 : Gallery
  • Students Murder Protest [Sep 26] #3 : Gallery
  • Help for injured students : Gallery
  • Collective fund for injured students
  • Students Murder Protest [Sep 27] #2 : Gallery
  • Students Murder Protest [Sep 26] #2 : Gallery
  • Students Murder Protest [Sep 27] #1 : Gallery
  • Protesters & AR @Pallel #2: Gallery
  • Rebuttal: EGI Fact-finding Mission Report
  • List of Kings of Manipur: 33 - 1984 AD
  • Model of Spelling-bee Competition
  • HSLC 2023 :: Top 25 Rank Holders
  • HSLC 2023 :: Subject Topper
  • HSLC 2023 :: Full Result
  • HSLC 2023 :: Compartmental Result
  • HSLC 2023 :: Pass % : Govt Schools
  • HSLC 2023 :: Pass % : Private Schools
  • HSLC 2023 :: Pass % : Aided Schools
  • HSE 2023 Toppers :: Science
  • HSE 2023 Toppers :: Arts
  • HSE 2023 Toppers :: Commerce
  • From May 3, 1993 to the present
  • COVID-19 : Impact in Manipur :: News Timeline