Veteran actress Vyjayanthimala, 79, who is based in Chennai, has taken to classical singing and later this month, will sing solo for the first time at a cultural event. She talks to Bombay Times about treading a different path, her contemporaries and how her life has changed over the years.

On singing solo for the first time
It's a new beginning for me. I have never sang solo before. I used to sing with my group at cultural festivals before, but I drifted away from music. I also had the fortune of being trained by DK Pattammal for a while, who was the doyen of Carnatic music. I'll be singing after a very long time, later this month in Chennai. The songs will be classical and a form of an offering for my guru. I won't sing for commercial reasons. My teachers are hoping that I don't scream (laughs)!

Not fascinated by cinema anymore
I got married to my husband (Chamanlal Bali) in 1968 and gave up films 47 years ago. I've never looked back as I wasn't tempted to act anymore. Today, I have nothing to do with cinema. Even when I was acting, I didn't allow it to come close to my classical dancing. There are so many different things to do in life. I was always inclined to traditional dance forms and sports more. I love playing golf today, thanks to my husband. I used to play tennis and badminton. I've won prizes for horse-riding. I am learning even at this age. There's nothing that one cannot do.“

On passion for dancing
Classical dance has been sacred to me. I bring forward old forgotten temple dance forms for today's audience. I've never performed on my film songs on stage. They are two different mediums. I wonder how some do it. I've planned to do a special performance in mid February, proceeds of which will go to the rehabilitation causes post the Chennai floods. My heart is grieving. The city suffered a lot, I was stuck in Bangalore at that time. Saira (Banu) is like a dear sister to me. She calls me akka. She was worried for me. I called her back and told her that I was fine. The people of Chennai have been strong.

On dance in films today
I don't watch films much but of what I see, the kind of dance you see in them today, is different from what we used to do. Changes are bound to happen but some are undesirable.

On Asha Parekh reportedly lobbying for Padma Bhushan
I heard about it. Asha is a very nice girl. I find the news a bit suspicious. The minister should not have disclosed it. She felt that she deserved it. Having said that, one shouldn't ask for an award. I have never used 'Padma Shri' before my name, was not keen on getting the Padma Bhushan either. By the grace of God, I've people's love and appreciation. That means much more.

On Sadhana
I didn't know her too well as she came much later. As an actress, she was very talented and spontaneous.