Manisha Koirala, who is now in remission, says she understands why filmmakers are hesitant to cast her
Subhash K Jha (DNA; April 21, 2015)

Born again, after a near-brush with death, Manisha Koirala is filled with hope for her new life, her new goals, and her determination to not mess up her life and career a second time.

Manisha, who has worked with the best of directors from Sanjay Leela Bhansali to Mani Ratnam, is now looking to rebuild her career. Tragically, she’s a victim of a perception that her illness may not be cured completely.

Says Manisha, “When one goes through something as life-changing as cancer, everyone around becomes wary, guarded and sceptical… ‘Is she really well? Maybe she’s hiding something.’ I don’t blame them. They feel if I am not well, their films will suffer. These are the unspoken realities of life.”

She had it all once — name, fame, beauty and talent. She admits she threw it all away. “I guess it was a self-destructive streak within me. I was confused with life. But after what I’ve gone through, I’m determined to never repeat the same mistakes again. Even if I have to sit at home and not work, I won’t do mediocre films.”

The ethereal beauty won’t compromise on her work any more. “I am not giving into the temptation of easy money. I’ve producers coming to me with pots of money telling me ‘London mein shooting hai.’ There are many temptations. But the question I ask myself is, ‘Are they worth my while as an actor?’ The answer is a big no.”

Manisha has signed a Kannada-Tamil film and a Hindi film. She says, “It is directed by A M R Ramesh. I’ve also okayed a Hindi film with Rajkumar Santoshi. That’s it for now.”

She holds no grudges against the entertainment industry for being cautious about her health. “I completely understand the scepticism. But I’d like to say this. If I’ve been honest enough while I’ve been unwell why would I be dishonest when I am well? I’ve gone through enough. I don’t need any more uncertainty in my life.”