"I wanted to know about the issue and so I interacted with the family of a naxalite to listen to their side of the story as well. It was important for me so that I can play my character well and feel what all those people go through," Bhagyashree told IANS in an interview.
The actress, who is known for her role in the romantic film "Maine Pyar Kiya", is playing the wife of actor Suniel Shetty in the film, who is a cook but somehow falls into the Maoist net and becomes one of them.
The film that also stars Sameera Reddy, Naseeruddin Shah and Seema Biswas, among others, is directed by Anant Mahadevan and is slated to hit the screens July 9.
When asked why she took up the role, Bhagyashree revealed that it was the best way of spreading awareness about the issue.
"This film gives some solution for the naxal problem and it was a great way of spreading awareness about this issue. So as an actor I thought I can't ignore the opportunity of being a part of something so great and challenging," she said.
Talking about her co-star in "Red Alert...", the actress said: "I never expected such a sensitive performance from Suniel. He is known for his action roles and lately for his comedy but he is equally good while playing intense characters."
Before "Maine Pyar Kiya", Bhagyashree was seen on a TV series called "Kachchi Dhoop", but not many remember her for her role in it. She later did films like "Qaid Mein Hai Bulbul", "Tyaagi", "Payal" and "Humko Deewani Kar Gaye", which went unnoticed and her career saw a downward trend.
Now, she feels that after "Red Alert - The War Within", her intense side would be recognized by people.
"I did not sign any Hindi film after this film, because I wanted people to see that I can do other roles as well," said the actress.