Tabu Discusses Indian Cuisine on the Set of 'Dune: Prophecy'

Mumbai, Dec 23 (NationPress) Bollywood actress Tabu, who takes on the role of Sister Francesca in the last two episodes of the series 'Dune: Prophecy', revealed that she treated her fellow cast members to Indian food while on set.

The actress expressed that her experience working on 'Dune: Prophecy'—which draws inspiration from 'Sisterhood of Dune' by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson and takes place 10,000 years before the events of 'Dune'—was filled with many first-time experiences, including collaborating with individuals she had never met before.

The series centers on two Harkonnen sisters as they confront forces that pose a threat to the future of humanity while laying the groundwork for what will evolve into the Bene Gesserit order, according to reports from variety.com.

Alison Schapker serves as the showrunner and executive producer, with Diane Ademu-John co-developing the series and also serving as executive producer. Anna Foerster is credited with executive producing and directing several episodes.

“One day, I received an email from my agents and managers informing me that Alison and Anna, the showrunners and directors, wanted to cast me for this specific role,” Tabu, known internationally for her roles in Mira Nair's 'The Namesake', 'A Suitable Boy', and Ang Lee's 'Life of Pi', shared.

The actress initially reviewed two scenes from the script and then participated in a Zoom meeting the next day where the creative team elaborated on her character's role in the final two episodes.

“I was instantly drawn to the character and the possibilities it presented. I felt that this was my domain, and I would genuinely enjoy the process,” she said.

Reflecting on the many firsts involved in this project, filmed in Budapest, Tabu remarked: “I believe it’s the first occasion in my career, or at least in the past two decades, where I was collaborating with individuals I had never met before, in an unfamiliar location.”

Tabu also infused the set with the essence of India.

“I arranged for Indian food to be brought to the set, sharing it with Josh and the rest of the cast. I had a restaurant in Budapest that would deliver lunch and dinner to us. We often ate outside our trailers,” Tabu shared.

“Moreover, when I arrive, I bring India with me—my home and my work in India are part of the whole experience.”

The character of Sister Francesca exists across two different timelines, with Charithra Chandran from 'Bridgerton' portraying the younger version, as reported by variety.com.

“Allison, Anna, and the entire crew were very intentional about ensuring she met me to absorb some essence of the character,” Tabu explained.

“You never know what can emerge from such a meeting, where you feed off each other’s energy while playing the same character. It was a delightful experience, especially since she is familiar with my work and has Indian roots, making the connection smoother. Consequently, I believe the transition feels authentic,” she added.

For Tabu, the character development involved careful thought.

“I was mindful of the world to which Francesca belongs. I aimed for her to resonate with the Bene Gesserit universe, yet she possesses a robust personality and narrative of her own that is distinct from the other characters, making it fascinating to navigate both aspects,” Tabu expressed.

The actress stated that every scene she performed was a joy.

“I had beautiful lines to deliver. My interactions with the Emperor were moments I will cherish, as well as those with Constantine, my son,” Tabu noted.

“It provided a very strong foundation for character development, especially since there was a romantic angle with the Emperor, granting this character its own distinctiveness and depth to explore.”

“Furthermore, wearing that costume and veil allowed me to present a look that was entirely different from my previous roles—this was a unique transformation,” she concluded.