Puja Chery, who rose to fame with Raihan Rafi's directorial film "Poramon 2", has made her web-series debut with his latest project, "Black Money".  Released on Bongo, the series has sparked significant buzz online, particularly because of the actress' performance.

"Black Money" is not only Puja's first web-series but also marks Raihan Rafi's debut in the format. Many had their attention on Puja as she took on the role of Shaila, an alluring character. The young actress shared that she continues to receive positive feedback for her performance in the series.

In an interview with Prothom Alo, Puja Chery shared her experience of portraying a unique role in Raihan Rafi's "Black Money".

The actress admitted she was initially nervous about taking on the role but credited the director's encouragement for helping her deliver. "Since the release, the feedback has been largely positive, though some have expressed differing views. I want to move forward with the love and appreciation I've received."

"Most people have praised my character, which I was uncertain about at first. I didn't think the role would suit me, but the director was confident, and I followed his guidance to the best of my ability," she remarked.

Known for her focus on fitness, Puja had to gain weight for the series to fully embody her character. Recalling the preparation, she shared, "I was told beforehand that I needed to put on weight. Initially, I was reluctant, but I realised it was necessary to do justice to the role. Since I loved the story, I didn't think twice later." 

Once the filming was completed, the actress started working to shed the extra weight and shared that she plans to return to her previous fitness level soon.

Puja then candidly shared that she often experiences mood swings, which sometimes lead to unexpected thoughts. "One moment I feel like doing something, and the next, I don't. Sometimes I even feel like impulsively getting married!" she said.

However, Puja clarified that marriage is not on her mind at the moment. "I feel like I'm not old enough to get married yet. This is my time to focus on work, and I want to keep doing that. But there are times when I think about giving it all up and living as a recluse far away," she added. 

Puja credited her mother for shaping her career, saying, "Whatever I have achieved today is because of my mother's determination to see me as an actress. She has even bigger dreams for me, and I want to fulfill those for her."

Addressing her thoughts on love, Puja conveyed, "You can't balance love and work at the same time. You either have to love wholeheartedly or focus on your work. Since I'm currently working, I've set love aside for now. I've told love, 'You can come into my life later, let me focus on my work first.'"

Speculation about Puja's romantic involvement with Dhallywood king Shakib Khan first surfaced during the filming of "Golui", where she starred opposite the actor. Her regular presence at events organised by Shakib's production house, as well as her attendance at the special screening of his film "Dard", has further fuelled the rumours. However, Puja finds the idea of a romantic relationship with Shakib amusing.

"Shakib bhai is such a senior personality—romance with him? Those who spread such rumours should feel ashamed. In our industry, whether it's with seniors or juniors, we develop a wonderful camaraderie through work. If I talk about Shakib bhai, Siam, Roshan, or ABM Sumon, I have worked with all of them, and they are great friends from a professional perspective. As for Shakib bhai, there is no question of anything beyond my deep respect for him," the actress affirmed.

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