Actress Aditi Rao Hydari on why it’s hard to hold on to love in the digital era
Deebashree Mohanty (TIMES LIFE; March 18, 2018)

What’s your take on the glamour industry’s pursuit of the “ideal figure” for an actress.
The set standard (of beauty) is a problem all over the world, not just this industry. It is great to live in a fairytale kind of a world where you wake up looking like a princess but that shouldn’t drive people to insanity. It’s not wrong for anyone to aspire to dress in a certain way and look his/her best, but you need to do it as a healthy encouragement and not because there is a set standard for it. I am all for the need to constantly become a better version of yourself – but not just physically.

Did you always want to be a part of this industry?
Some people are just born drama queens, and I am one of them. I’ve always loved being the centre of attraction; so dancing, playing dress up and imitating were a part of my growing up years. I was lucky to be born in a family where I was encouraged to speak up and take up any profession that I had set my heart on.

Has it ever bothered you that you haven’t had a breakthrough role yet?
I try not to let it bother me too much. When you are not from the industry and don’t have a godfather, I think you yearn for it that much more. But I am happy with the amazing opportunities that I have got thus far. I am a director’s actor and I’m blessed to have worked with some of the big names in the industry already. I am hungry for more, though.

Any lessons from any director that have had a lasting impact?
I remember what Imtiaz (Ali) had told me on the sets of Rockstar. He saw me meddling with my hair, and asked if it was bothering me. I said yes. He said: “The way you look will always remain the same. What will matter is how you play your character.” That has been one of my biggest takeaways.

What is your weakness?
I get upset quite easily. When I can’t raise my voice, I start crying. I have to stop being so sensitive as the industry is a tough place to be in.

Your thought on love in the times of the smartphone and social media?
I strongly believe in love but I am a more in-the-moment kind of a person. Chocolate and flowers cannot woo me. The problem with our digital era is that it has made love very convenient; as an emotion love should never be convenient.
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QUICK FIRE

Your favourite actress
Kangana Ranaut because she has the courage to speak up. It lands her in trouble sometimes, but at least she does what she wants.

The first thing you notice in a man
His hands (the natural shape of them). They speak a lot about the person to me.

Comfortable being friendly with the ex?
Of course. But only if the person is worth it

Dating vs hanging out
Dating is cumbersome. Hanging out is chilled out.

Style to me is
Effortless. Even when I wear heavy-duty Indian clothes, I try to be at ease.

The most treasured item in your closet?
I am not attached to my clothes and accessories in that way

Last holiday
I was in London where I had gone for work and stayed back for three days.

Next destination
I want to go to South America...

A designer label I could wear all the time
Sabyasachi!