Showing posts with label Sharmila Tagore interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sharmila Tagore interview. Show all posts
Sharmila Tagore mourns the loss of Dharmendra: "We shared the same birth date. If only we could’ve wished each other"
9:00 AM
A still from ‘Satyakam’
Sharmila Tagore mourns the loss of her ‘Satyakam’ and ‘Chupke Chupke’ co-star, only days before his 90th birthday
As told to Upala KBR (MID-DAY; November 25, 2025)
We did seven movies together — Devar (1966), Anupama (1966), Satyakam (1969), Chupke Chupke (1975) and others — over the years, each special in its own way. We hardly spoke during our first movie, Devar. It took our second movie together, Anupama, to break the ice. We shared the same birth date, December 8. Though I knew he was critical, I wish he had stayed back so we could have wished each other. Every time I saw Chupke Chupke, I would message him and say how much I loved him in it. It was not his usual He-Man role, and I feel he should have won awards for it.
Among all our films together, Satyakam was the most challenging because it was a serious social drama. Dharam revered Hrishida [Hrishikesh Mukherjee, director] and his work. During the shoot, Hrishi da would tell Dharam not to think of himself as a star with an expensive car waiting outside the set, but as an honest and a poor man. I always found him listening and following the instructions of his directors closely, and never having any airs.
I remember we were shooting the song, Chhalka Yeh Jaam, for Mere Hamdam Mere Dost (1967). We had to complete the song that night as I was travelling to Kolkata the next day to watch a cricket match. Dharam cooperated and extended the shooting. He worked all night so that the song could be completed by 7 am the next day. He helped the producers and me, and I was always grateful for that.
While he had the He-Man image on screen, off it, he was a kind, affectionate, gentle, and caring person. He was very protective about women, and we felt safe when he was shooting with us.
Despite his superstardom, there was never any starry attitude to him. I clearly remember he had met me in Delhi where I was shooting for Waqt (1965). We were sitting in the lobby of the Imperial Hotel, when a dishevelled-looking gentleman saw Dharam and shouted out something in Punjabi. Dharam got up, went to the man and embraced him. Later he told us that he hadn’t recognized the man, but responded to him as a person. And I have always seen him like that — warm, humble, and ever-smiling.
Hrishida would tease him, people would pull Dharam’s leg, saying, “Aap toh bohot bade aadmi ho”. But he would smile with twinkling eyes, never behaving like a star.
Wes Anderson was curious to know what Satyajit Ray was like-Sharmila Tagore
8:20 AM
(From left) Co-stars Simi Garewal and Sharmila Tagore ahead of Aranyer Din Ratri’s screening; (right) (From left) Wes Anderson with Sharmila Tagore at Cannes. Pics/Getty Images, AFP, Wikimedia Commons, Instagram
Sharmila Tagore talks all things Cannes — from the standing ovation for Aranyer Din Ratri, to discussing Satyajit Ray movies with noted filmmaker Wes Anderson
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; May 24, 2025)
The thunderous applause, the standing ovation, and the pride she felt to be at the receiving end of it all. It’s a precious memory that Sharmila Tagore will keep close to her heart for a long time. “There was a standing ovation for a few minutes. People just clapped and clapped and clapped. We were getting tired of standing,” laughs Tagore, who returned only a few days ago from the special screening of Aranyer Din Ratri (1970) at the 78th Cannes Film Festival.
On May 20, a restored 4K version of late Satyajit Ray’s masterpiece was screened as part of the Cannes Classics section. Tagore and Simi Garewal, who had featured in the gem alongside late Soumitra Chatterjee, attended the event with noted American filmmaker Wes Anderson. Mention Anderson, who led Aranyer Din Ratri’s restoration and presented it at the film gala, and Tagore heaps praise on him.
“He was so respectful about Satyajit Ray, interested in and well-informed about his films. He was curious to know what Soumitra and Ray were like. I felt silly because I was not as well-informed [about his latest movies] as he was about ours. I have seen The Grand Budapest Hotel [2014], but not Asteroid City [2023], or I would have asked him about it.”
The veteran actor is no stranger to the Cannes Film Festival. After all, her 1960 movie Devi, directed by Ray, was in contention for the Palme d’Or at the 1962 edition of the prestigious film gala; in 2009, she was part of the festival’s jury. She is not surprised that this time too, it is Ray’s creation that has taken her back to the French Riviera.
Remembering the auteur who launched her in the movies, she says, “Sometime in the 1980s, I had interviewed Manik da [Ray] for Eyewitness [TV show]. When I asked him his favourite movies, he mentioned the Apu Trilogy, Charulata [1964], and Aranyer Din Ratri. Aranyer… was his first foray into contemporary cinema after his period films.”
It’s a privilege to have worked with Ray. Tagore knows she is among those fortunate few who had the privilege many times over. How was the legend at work? It’s a question, we’re sure, many asked her.
“I remember the scene in Aranyer… where my character shares that her mother had died in a forest. Before filming, Manik da came very close to me and read out that scene once. So, I did whatever he told me to do. As a director, he would read out the scene and then leave it to the actor to perform. If there was something he didn’t like in your performance, he would come very close to you and say, ‘Can you do it differently, please?’ We always got a lot of confidence seeing him behind the camera, looking at us. We knew he wouldn’t let us perform badly.”
Talking about Ray without mentioning Chatterjee is almost impossible. Tagore, who starred alongside the late Bengali actor in several films, must have missed him in Cannes. “Yes, and Rabi da [Rabi Ghosh, actor] too! I miss Soumitra continuously. He was one of my dearest friends, and he was not just a good actor; he could sing, write, and paint. He was truly a Renaissance man.”
With Cannes behind her, Tagore now hopes that Aranyer Din Ratri’s restored version is released in India. In fact, the veteran actor urges that the classics of Indian cinema be restored.
“If films are not restored, they will disappear. By restoring them, the new generation can see these films. I will request Shivendra Singh Dungarpur to make sure that Aranyer… is released in theatres across India.”
Cannes gives our films a wider platform-Sharmila Tagore
2:50 PM
Sharmila Tagore on Cannes Jury in 2009, inset, a still from her film Aranyer Din Ratri
Renuka Vyavahare (BOMBAY TIMES; May 17, 2025)
Sharmila Tagore, who has been to the Cannes Film Festival many times in her illustrious film career, will be at the French Riviera this year for the world premiere of Satyajit Ray’s restored classic Aranyer Din Ratri (1970) featuring her. Accompanying her will be her daughter, Saba. The veteran actress talks about what makes the Cannes Film Festival so special, her cherished experiences as a film enthusiast and her thoughts on one of the festival’s most talked-about aspects beyond cinema — fashion.
You have been to the Cannes Film Festival many times over the years. You featured in Devi, Satyajit Ray’s film that was nominated for the Palme d’Or in 1962 and were also a part of the Cannes jury in 2009. This year, you will attend the world premiere of Ray’s restored classic Aranyer Din Ratri (1970). How special does this moment feel?
Yes, I’ve been to Cannes many times, and I was also on their jury. As a jury member, they take good care of you, and you are made to feel special. I’ve spent a lot of time there watching beautiful films and interesting films from all over the world.
‘Experiencing Aranyer Din Ratri on the big screen at Cannes will be fascinating’
This is world cinema at its finest. My film Aranyer Din Ratri, which was released in 1970, was restored after a long time. Experiencing it on the big screen at Cannes will be fascinating. Recently, the Bengali film Nayak (1966) was also re-released. It was so beautiful to see it on the big screen, instead of seeing it on a small screen or watching a non-restored version. When you see a restored print on a big screen, it’s like seeing it for the first time. That’s the main attraction for me this year at Cannes.
That apart, Cannes visit is special on its own because it’s a big congregation of film people from all over the world. You get to see cutting-edge world cinema. It’s wonderful for cine lovers to go to the city and have their fill of cinema. People who love cinema go to Cannes. There is a bazaar where people buy and sell films. Some people just come for the buzz, ambience and atmosphere. A lot of things happen there. People have yachts, there are yacht parties, and parties galore every night. So, it’s a very buzzing place right now.
This year, the festival has announced a dress code which states – no nudity and no voluminous gowns. Years ago, they had no flats (footwear) rule for women, which has changed now. The new rule says, ‘Guests can wear elegant shoes and sandals with or without a heel’. What are your views on this?
Actresses over the years have been wearing what they want to. I am not aware of any dress code. Yes, I remember the men were expected to wear black. Cannes is a place where people celebrate. It’s a gorgeous seaside destination, so people like dressing up. There’s nothing wrong with it. Everybody celebrates in their own way. I will most certainly wear a sari and flats. I wore a sari when I was part of the jury, and every time I’ve been there. I feel people should dress up the way they want.
What is your opinion of the overall Indian representation at Cannes?
Chetan Anand’s Neecha Nagar in 1946 was the first Indian film to win the Grand Prix du Festival International du Film (the precursor to the Palme d’Or), the festival’s highest honour. All We Imagine As Light, directed by Payal Kapadia, made history last year at the festival by winning the prestigious Grand Prix Award. Indian representation has always been there. My film Devi was nominated in 1962 for Palme d’Or. There is an Indian pavilion as well. A lot of people showcase Indian films there. Our films have been recognized there, and Cannes gives them a wider platform.
Sharmila Tagore’s favourite Cannes looks – from Brigitte Bardot to Meryl Streep
Earlier, there were Brigitte Bardot and Gina Lollobrigida (actresses), who were known for wearing exotic clothes at Cannes. After them, there hasn’t been a striking point. Now everybody dresses well. Last year, I loved Meryl Streep’s white dress. It was simple and elegant.
We never thought that theatres for Puratawn would run house full over weeks-Sharmila Tagore
8:29 AM
Amid rumours of Puratawn being her swansong in Bengali cinema, Sharmila Tagore says she is willing to brave the exertion of shoots only for thoughtful and realistic films
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; April 26, 2025)
The chatter in the Bengali film industry is that the Bengal Tigress has roared again. When we mention this to Sharmila Tagore, she laughs, before saying, “The media sometimes called me ‘La Tagore’, and at other times, Bengal Tigress. Since I was married to Tiger Pataudi, the [latter] came easily to them.”
One can understand the Bengali film industry and the audience’s exhilaration to see Tagore returning to Tollywood after 16 years. And with a brilliant film like Puratawn at that. Suman Ghosh’s directorial venture, also starring Rituparna Sengupta, explores a mother-daughter relationship as Tagore’s character slowly loses her grip on reality and shows first signs of memory loss. It is being hailed as among the senior actor’s best performances.
“We were aiming for critical acclaim, and never thought that theatres would run house-full over weeks. It was surprising to know that it’s a success. When we make a film, we never think if it will be a success or not. We thought Puratawn is different from the usual movies as it doesn’t have the ingredients for a hit film.”
Since debuting with Apur Sansar (1959) over six decades ago, Tagore has prominently featured in Bengali films, cutting down on them only in the aughts. Did it take her a while to go back to speaking Bengali in front of the camera?
“I’ve never lost touch with Bengali. I was so happy to speak entirely in my language after so many years in a movie,” she smiles.
In the past two years, it has been a pleasure to see the veteran actor back in the thick of things. With Gulmohar (2023), she returned to Hindi cinema after a 13-year hiatus, and followed it up with The Outhouse last year. It’s evident that she is enjoying cherry-picking her roles at this stage.
“I’ve done all kinds of roles, including frivolous ones in the past. At this stage, I want to do roles that are real, like in Gulmohar and Puratawn. I’d love to play a comic role someday. If there is a role that speaks to me, has depth and makes me feel I can do it, I’ll say yes.”
Recently, she expressed that Puratawn may be her final Bengali movie. Is she bowing out of Bengali cinema?
She reflects, “If the role is worth it, I may do it. [But] physically one gets exhausted on sets. In Puratawn, we had to climb three storeys as there were no lifts in the building; that was tiring. Ritu’s production house and Suman’s presence made it easier.”
I don’t think I’ll be doing any more films-Sharmila Tagore
8:09 AM
Ruman Ganguly (BOMBAY TIMES; April 15, 2025)
This Bengali New Year is extra special for Sharmila Tagore, as the veteran actress’ first Bengali film in about 14 years, Puratawn, has just released. Speaking to us at the Kolkata premiere of the film, the veteran actress tells us about her interpretation of Poila Boishakh. “Poila Boishakh isn’t about grandeur for us – it’s about the connection, the small joys, and traditions we’ve built over time,” she says.
In a chat with us, Tagore speaks about how the family celebrates different festivals “in their own ways”, returning to Bengali cinemas after a long time and why the recent film might just be her last.
‘We celebrate festivals in our own way’
“We celebrate every festival in our own personal way — that’s what makes them meaningful. Saif celebrates Eid, Kareena celebrates Diwali, and yes, Ganpati too. And wearing new clothes during Durga Puja? That’s still a must in our family,” she shares. Food, unsurprisingly, remains at the centre of it all.
“Goja banano hotoh barite mone ache amar (I remember we used to make deep-fried treats at home),” she recalls fondly. “My mother would prepare an elaborate anno bhog to offer to the almighty. Sweets were always part of the celebration, and they still are.”
‘TO RETURN TO BENGALI FILMS AFTER 14 YEARS IS SPECIAL’
It’s been nearly 14 years since Tagore last faced the camera for a Bengali film – but with the recently released Puratawn, she’s back in a language that remains closest to her heart. “I never really left cinema,” she says. “Even when I wasn’t doing films, I was still engaged – lecturing, working with NGOs, always involved with people. But Bengali cinema... it’s something else. To return after 14 years, and to do so with a film like this – that’s special.”
Puratawn, starring Tagore and Rituparna Sengupta, is a film about “a mother and a daughter – about ageing, memory, and how families navigate change.” Talking about the film, the actress says, “Ritu, who plays my daughter, is trying to fix everything — but the film shows that not everything in life can be fixed.”
The emotional layers of the film resonated with Tagore. “Many parents live alone today — their children are abroad or settled in different cities. Joint families are rare. Loneliness is real, and the film reflects that beautifully.”
‘MORE FILMS LIKE NAYAK SHOULD BE BROUGHT BACK TO THE BIG SCREEN’
Recently, Satyajit Ray’s critically acclaimed film Nayak (1966), starring Tagore and Uttam Kumar was re-released on the big screen across India, drawing first-timers from a younger generation and older audiences alike.
“Watching Nayak on the big screen after 60 years was a fabulous experience (smiles),” says the actress whose turn as a feisty but compassionate journalist in the film commands a fan following of its own till this day. “I’ve seen the film many times before, but only on a small screen. Getting the chance to watch it in a theatre is rare – you usually have to go to a film festival or wait for a special re-release.”
Tagore went not once, but twice – both times with close friends. “Uttam babu was absolutely fantastic, and Sumita Sanyal was so good, even in her short role. And I’ll be honest – I even enjoyed watching myself on screen,” she shares.
For the actress, the re-release was more than nostalgia – it was a reminder of how classic cinema continues to resonate. “I really hope more films like this are brought back. The impact, the enjoyment – it’s all so much greater when you see a film in a theatre. There’s something magical about it.”
A mother’s lullaby
In his exclusive interview with us, Saif Ali Khan spoke of a lullaby his mother sang to him in the hospital when he was recovering post the attack on him. “That hasn’t happened since I was a baby,” he had said. Tagore smiles when reminded of it. “I used to sing Khoka ghumolo para juralo... — isn’t that the perfect song to put a little boy to sleep? It’s apt, I feel,” she smiles.
‘I don’t think I’ll be doing films anymore’
The recently released Bengali film Puratwan may be the veteran actress’ last film. “I don’t think I’ll be doing any more films,” she says quietly. “Lately, I haven’t been keeping too well. During the shoot, I had to climb stairs, and while I managed, it made me anxious — will I be able to do everything that’s expected on a set? You need to be physically fit to shoot a film, and I’m not sure my health will permit that anymore.”
Badi amma (Sharmila Tagore) gives me advice on life, social media-Sara Ali Khan
8:16 AM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; May 15, 2024)
After wrapping up her morning shoot in Mumbai, Sara Ali Khan joined Sharmila Tagore in the capital recently. The ever-poised Sharmila Tagore had a fun partner in Sara Ali Khan as they spoke about their careers and wish lists. During a round of fireside questions, Sharmila Tagore joked that she would like to wear the five-inch heels on the red carpet like Soha.
At one point, the grandmother-granddaughter duo had some disagreement over which young heartthrob could be cast opposite Sharmila Tagore if the latter were to star in a rom-com. While Sara thought Ranbir Kapoor would be a classy option opposite her badi amma, Sharmila said, “Maybe Ranveer (Singh)!” Here’s a glimpse of all that transpired...
Sharmila Tagore’s advice to Sara if she had to do a biopic on her
Sharmila teased, “Must not copy my hairdo. But you have to because it’s recorded. You poor thing! Nandita Das copies me very well. I think Sara is going to do it her own way. Give me some years, hopefully then I will be around to teach more mannerisms.”
Sara responded, “A lot of grace will be required.” Sharmila Tagore quipped, “You have not seen my old films. There were many scenes where I stomped my feet and said, ‘Shut up!’” Sara warmly replied, “Yes, but gracefully.”
RELATIONSHIPS REQUIRE A LITTLE BIT OF FORGETFULNESS: SHARMILA TAGORE
About her idea of a life well lived, Sharmila Tagore said, “Sometimes it worries me that, ‘Oh! God, if something happens to me and the people I love aren’t there, I won’t be able to see them for the last time. It’s an awful thought, but sometimes all you want is to be loved by your family. But that doesn’t happen unless you nurture your relationships. Relationships require nurturing, kindness, a little bit of forgetfulness – letting things go. A little bit of amnesia could be a good thing.”
I WENT THROUGH A PHASE WHEN I NEEDED SUPPORT, AND BADI AMMA CAME LIKE AN ARMY: SARA
Talking about her bond with Sharmila Tagore, Sara said, “Ek hota hai that you are there in good times – Pataudi gaye aur phuljhariyan jalayi, ya London gaye aur Hyde Park mein Ibrahim ki chocolate churayi. Woh theek hai. But when things go south in life, and you need somebody (she is there). I went through a phase in life when I needed support, and badi amma came like an army. She was there for me. In times like that, you realize the true value of relationships. My parents don’t live together but despite that, there is a very appropriate equation that my grandmother shares with my mother, for which I respect both of them immensely. My mom doesn’t have parents, but if anything were to happen to me or Ibrahim, I know that she wouldn’t be alone because badi amma will be there, and that’s everything.”
She added, “She gives me advice on how to manage a lot of things – my life, social media. I think the sense of politeness, of balance, taking it seriously but not over-obsessing – these are ongoing reminders. But she has taught me these not just because she is an actor herself but also because she is an extremely balanced person.”
The bikini story has never been forgotten: Sharmila Tagore
Sharmila Tagore recalled, “It was a Filmfare cover. There were a lot of adverse comments as well as positive comments. It created a huge stir, so there was a lot of learning. I thought I looked very nice in that costume. If I wore it now, it would be odd. Back then, Shakti ji (Samanta), my director, called and said that we have to do some damage control. Not damage control as such, but I decided to change my image. I realized that this glamorous image doesn’t stay in people’s minds forever. So, if you make a place in people’s hearts as a person and not just as a glamorous individual, they could be more loyal to you. The films I chose, I chose with care, like Aradhana and Amar Prem. Of course, the bikini story has never been forgotten. Once upon a time, it was frowned upon, and then it became a very feminine and feminist thing to do. I just thought I had a good figure and I wanted to show off. I still feel that there was nothing wrong. But one needs to learn that you are not living on an island; we need to coexist.”
There was a time when opinions were formed on magazine covers, now they change every day: Sara
Sara added, “It is very important, no matter what age and stage we are, to have a strong sense of self and not seek validation externally. As an actor, I love my audience. I have been taught by my family that when you love, you are loved back. But here (with the audience), it’s not the same. Aur worse tab hota hai jab aapko yahan le jate hain aur phir yahan le aate hain (gesturing ups and lows). It’s not even about movies anymore. There was a time when opinions were formed on magazine covers, then they were formed at the Friday box office. (Now it’s like) Today, I did something good, people like me; tomorrow, I did something bad, people write me off. So I think it is important to surround yourself with like-minded people; otherwise, all of it could be very daunting.”
RANBIR OR RANVEER?
When Sara was asked who she thinks would star opposite Sharmila Tagore in a modern rom-com, if she were to do one, Sara said, “Ranbir Kapoor. I think that you need class to star opposite badi amma.”
When Sharmila Tagore disapprovingly nodded, Sara said, “So, who do you want Ranveer Singh? Sharmila Tagore responded, “Why not?” Sara joked, “So Ranveer Singh it is. There is another DP in the house!”
Telephone operators were very much a part of Tiger and my love story-Sharmila Tagore
8:34 AM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; April 7, 2024)
Sharmila Tagore recently interacted with teachers and principals of Delhi University during a book launch in the city. During the discussion, the veteran actress reminisced about her college days, spoke about a new habit she has inculcated – of writing letters to her granddaughter – and even shared some snippets from her love story with Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
The Mirandian experience
As Sharmila Tagore attended a discussion at the invitation of Miranda House Principal Bijayalaxmi Nanda, she told her, “I came to Delhi in 1984 when amma, my mother-in-law, was ill. I had heard of Miranda House even before then, and I had heard about all those very bright women. And because the principal has so much to do with it, and you’re the principal now, when I received the invitation from you, I couldn’t say no. I just had to come and get this Mirandian experience.”
‘Telephone operators were very much a part of Tiger and my love story’
Not just letters, the veteran actress remembered how the lightning calls took forever. She said, “So, I didn’t have a telephone, and I used to go to Raj Singh’s house – a wonderful friend of Tiger and mine. I used to go to his house and wait for a call at 1 am. Sometimes, the phone would ring, and I would urgently pick it up, and someone at the other end would hear a female voice and quickly hang up. Poor Raj Singh ji’s reputation! The call used to go via London, so we often ended up talking to the operator. Those operators were very much a part of our love story. Maybe we should have invited them to our wedding,” she joked.
‘Letters are wonderful’
Referring to Bijayaalaxmi Nanda’s book, which is about letters, she said, “Letters are wonderful. I’ve started writing letters to Soha’s daughter Inaaya, and when Soha opened that letter, the joy on that little girl’s face and that expression made me so happy. It was the first letter she had received. So I continued writing letters to her. She writes back, and Soha takes a photograph of it and sends it to me, not the real letter. Those letters are kept somewhere for me to see someday. If I live that long and Inaaya is of a certain age, then we can compare those letters and relive those moments. When I was writing to Tiger – that way, I think technology is wonderful – it took a couple of weeks to get back.”
Earlier, we had to wait for hours for the hero to arrive on the set-Sharmila Tagore
8:32 AM
Fourteen years after Antaheen, Sharmila Tagore will be back on the big screen, as Rituparna Sengupta’s mother in a Bengali film. Highlights from a conversation about her role & male co-stars
Ruman Ganguly (BOMBAY TIMES; September 4, 2023)
A challenging role ahead
I’m very fond of Rituparna. I watched her in Mondo Meyer Upakhyan and was impressed by her performance. When she approached me with the script of Puratawn, I knew I had to do it. I’ve seen Suman’s (Ghosh’s) work. He’s a sensitive director. Over 60 years, I’ve done good, bad, indifferent and glamorous roles. If I can pull off this challenging role, it will be one of my better ones.
Juggling Aradhana & Aranyer Din Ratri
I cannot really explain how I managed to balance my work with Satyajit Ray and my Hindi films. I went with my directors’ instructions, be it Hindi or Bangla. During Aradhana, we were shooting for ‘Sapno Ki Rani’ in Darjeeling, and Manik da (Satyajit Ray) called me to say he needed my dates for a month. I told Shakti ji (Samanta) that I was going and he didn’t know what to do! Saying no to Manik da was impossible, so he had to let me go. When Aradhana became a hit, I guess Shakti ji’s anger subsided, even though I had to leave the set for a month!
Manik da was always supportive of my Bollywood career. Most Bengalis were disapproved of my move to Mumbai, but he simply smiled at all the criticism.
No more waiting for hero ki entry!
The entertainment industry is a better and far more professional space now. People are on time, there is a proper script and costumes, a break after every five days. It’s a very comfortable environment for us seniors especially, to work in. Earlier, we had to wait for hours for the hero to arrive on the set. Now everyone comes on time and most importantly, people come to the floor only after having read the script and well prepared. Besides, thanks to improved sync-sound, we hardly need to dub.
On an OTT set, that’s teeming with bright young women, the energy is infectiously high and positive. While these days we get our scripts written in the Roman script, I still prefer to read a Bengali script in Bangla, Hindi script in Hindi and an English script in English. English is a language of power and is important, but a script should be written in the language it is meant to be spoken.
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Kolkata has not changed much. While the potholes are the same, I do see some of the beautiful old buildings being replaced by modern structures that remind you of Delhi
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My husband (Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi) knew only one Bengali phrase: ‘Tumi jodi ponero minute ready na hoteh paro, ami chole jabo!’ (If you can’t get ready in 15 minutes, I will leave). When I get annoyed with my children I feel like telling them, ‘Poramukho!’ (laughs).
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I can’t eat street food like ghugni, phuchka like I used to. Now I eat very boring food!
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When I got into acting, my teachers said I would be a bad influence on other students, so I had to switch to another convent school. But I learned Sanskrit and Bengali. Bangaliana comes naturally to me
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Can’t believe I’ll be working with Sharmila Tagore, my idol! She had once hinted that she’d be interested in a Bengali film again, if the script was good. That’s how Suman and I developed this story
– Rituparna Sengupta
Don’t overprotect elders. Stop hovering around them, ‘Are you alright?’-Sharmila Tagore
9:07 AM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; June 22, 2023)
At a recent event organized by Help Age India in Delhi, Sharmila Tagore spoke about how children need to be more sensitive towards their elderly parents and why her being away from the screen did not mean a sabbatical from cinema.
She said, “I may not have been acting, but I was speaking about cinema on different forums. You don’t have to be at the pinnacle of your career – but at every stage, if you can speak up and make your presence felt, that’s what makes the difference.”
DON’T OVERPROTECT ELDERS: SHARMILA TAGORE
The veteran actress added, “Elderly people should not think, ‘Oh! My kids are not in the country, and I am alone.’ They should create their support system with their friends. I have my own life beyond my family, and my children have their own. These are the negotiations we make. Say, I’m having a cataract operation, I don’t need my son next to me, right? If it’s a life-threatening operation, then perhaps he should be there. And kids, never push an elderly person to do what they don’t want to do. Elders have a mind of their own, so just support them. It is quite easy to do that. Don’t overprotect elders either. Stop hovering around them, ‘Are you alright?’ and all that. That perhaps is not necessary.”
‘CONTENT ON TV IS QUITE REGRESSIVE’
Broaching on the topic of the content shown on TV today, Sharmila said that she doesn’t really approve of them. “I am a member of the Broadcasting Content Complaints Council (BCCC), and I feel that the content TV is offering today is quite regressive. Most TV serials portray women as women’s worst enemies, and that is so unfortunate. The government does keep a tab on this, and then it finally comes to us. Sometimes, we call the show makers, asking them to tweak or remove certain objectionable portions. But, producers mostly refuse to budge as commerce often overrides logic,” Sharmila explained.
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"We have to re-look at how we see age. We look at age as a burden or decline. We have to reframe old age as a time when there are new things to learn. Now that I am working less, this is an opportunity for me to do many things that I haven't done before - to learn more things, to look at the future optimistically, these tech things that some of us shy away from"
Tiger Pataudi and I were completely unaware of Hindu Muslim issues in Bombay when we got married-Sharmila Tagore
8:37 AM
Niharika Lal (BOMBAY TIMES; April 13, 2023)
Veteran actress Sharmila Tagore was recently in Delhi for a session titled Breaking The Boundaries: An Accidental Actor To An Idol. At the event, the actress shared why she consciously decided to do more meaningful roles after An Evening In Paris (1967), and chose films like Aradhana (1969), Amar Prem (1972), Avishkaar (1974) — which are still considered outstanding. The session was held on the sidelines of the 8th National Leadership Conclave & All India Management Association’s (AIMA) 13th Managing India Awards.
‘REALISED THAT A GLAM IMAGE IS ALL VERY GOOD, BUT TO BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY, I HAVE TO BE MORE THAN THAT’
Talking about the reaction that her bikini scene in An Evening In Paris (1967) got, Sharmila Tagore said, “When I did An Evening In Paris, my bikini scene was shocking. The public, including the industry, was quite surprised. I believe there were questions asked in Parliament at that time.”
The actress added, “Although it looks very innocent now, compared to the kind of films we see today.”
“I remember there was a poster of the film on the road (near her home), and my mother-in-law was coming to town, so I got my driver to take down that poster in the middle of the night – not realizing that there might be other posters on the way from the airport,” Tagore said.
After the film’s release, Tagore said that she realized that “a glamorous image is all very good, but if I want to be taken seriously, then I have to be more than that. Fortunately, Aradhana (1969) arrived at that time, which I signed. From then on, I was consciously choosing my script. After Aradhana, there was Amar Prem (1972), Avishkar (1974), Mausam (1975), Namkeen (1982) and many other films that spoke to me. These films have stayed on. I managed to take myself beyond glamour. Glamour is not forever. You are very attractive, and the world goes crazy about you, but after a while, somebody else will take that place.”
‘SCRIPT IS PARAMOUNT’
With her recent film Gulmohar (2023), Tagore returned to acting after a gap of over a decade. Talking about how the film industry has become more structured over the years, she said, “The honest truth is that the script is paramount. The industry has come a long way. There’s so much that has improved in the industry, and you’ll be surprised to know that when we started we didn’t even have a script. Somebody would give us a narrative and tell us what the story is about, and then we would take it from there. The money was also not in place, except for Raj Kapoor, Shantaram, B R Chopra, and a few others. Movies took a long time to make, and we also didn’t have as many theatres. A film of Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, or Dev Anand would get released in all theatres, while a film like Anupama (1966) would not even get a release date for a long time. Everything was quite different.”
‘ARADHANA RUNNING IN THEATRES FOR 50 WEEKS PROVED THAT EMOTIONS TRANSCEND LANGUAGE’
Recalling the anti-Hindi agitation in Chennai around the time when Aradhana was released in 1969, Tagore said, “When Aradhana was released, there was a huge protest in Chennai against Hindi. At that time, there was kind of a Hindi boycott ongoing. Yet, Aradhana ran for 50 weeks in theatres. It was the RRR of our time.”
Sharmila added, “It just shows that emotions transcend language. Our films, irrespective of the region they come from, make people laugh and cry. Therefore, our commonalities far exceed our differences.”
‘AT THE AGE OF 13, I HAD NO IDEA WHO SATYAJIT RAY WAS OR HOW FAMOUS HE WAS’
Sharmila Tagore started her career with Satyajit Ray’s 1959 film Apur Sansar. Talking about how she didn’t realise how fortunate she was, she said, “When Satyajit Ray introduced me to cinema at the age of 13, I don’t think I quite appreciated that. It was obviously something that was accidental. The fact is that I did that film, and I did get noticed by the world. It opened so many doors for me. But at the age of 13, I had no idea who Satyajit Ray was or how famous he was.”
‘WE WERE COMPLETELY UNAWARE OF HINDU-MUSLIM ISSUES IN BOMBAY WHEN WE GOT MARRIED’
Sharmila Tagore married Tiger Pataudi (Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi) in 1968. In response to a question on the cultural differences between her family and the Pataudi family, she said that there was no cultural difference because she also belonged to a big family, adding, “When you are talking about Hindu-Muslim issue, in Mumbai, we were completely unaware of it. We just announced it to our respective parents and then it was their problem to sort it out. In Bengal, my parents were getting notes (threats) and similar things were happening here (in Mumbai). So much so, that one morning, I was told that some officials from Delhi have come to see me. They told me ‘You need protection and we have come to protect you.’ I said, ‘I think I’m all right and I don’t feel threatened in Mumbai.’ And it was true. The wedding went on peacefully and all went well. The perception was that there would be some kind of problem but thank God it didn’t happen.”
I loved Haribhai to death but he had one very irritating habit. He just couldn’t make it to shoots on time-Sharmila Tagore
8:55 AM
Sanjeev Kumar and Sharmila Tagore in a scene from Mausam (1975)
In a new biography on Hairbhai Jariwala aka Sanjeev Kumar, co-actor Sharmila Tagore remembers a stellar actor who drove her up the wall
MID-DAY (June 19, 2022)
I don't quite remember when I first met Haribhai. It was probably on the sets of Shandaar. He was already a big star. Our working equation began on a note of mutual respect and friendship. Shaandar was shot in 1974 in Chennai. The film industry there is extremely disciplined and strict about the language. Since Hindi is not their native tongue, they are very hesitant about changing even a single word of the dialogue that is sent from Bombay.
In one of the scenes, I had to say, “Mera dil huk uthega.” This to me sounded overly dramatic. I couldn’t identify with its sentiment. I got into a vehement argument. The director and the assistants tried to convince me that I had to say that line, but I wouldn’t listen. In those days there were no mobile phones, so they couldn’t get in touch with the dialogue writer in Bombay to suggest an alternative. Being a Bengali, I couldn’t come up with better suggestions either. This stalemate continued for a couple of hours at least.
Finally, Haribhai came up to me and whispered, “Rinku, [my nickname] do you want to stay here all night? It doesn’t matter, whatever the dialogue is, if you say it with the right emotion, I am sure you will sound convincing, and the scene will also work.”
I understood the wisdom of his words and did just that. That day I learnt an important lesson from him—that to make a scene work, one needs to cooperate. As long as you deliver your dialogue sincerely, the audience will also believe it.
Although I loved Haribhai to death, he had one very irritating habit—he just couldn’t make it to shoots on time. At one time, I was doing a double shift, Faraar in the morning and Mausam in the evening. In both the films, Haribhai was my co-star.
Those of you who have seen Mausam would know that I played a double role in the film. On my first day’s shooting as Kajri, I was extremely excited, and all keyed up. I was portraying this kind of a character for the first time and was really looking forward to the day’s shoot. I was ready with my make-up and dialogues by 2 pm, and guess at what time Haribhai came? 8 pm. I had been waiting for about six hours, and by the time we went to the set, I was exhausted and livid. I was so angry that I had a meltdown and said very nasty things to him, which had absolutely no effect on him. He remained totally calm, and that made me more angry.
Finally, Gulzar sahab, in a very conciliatory tone, said, “Can we at least take one shot?” Haribhai had no problem doing the scene. He did his part perfectly, and I, on the other hand, kept giving retakes after retakes. I don’t remember how the day ended, but again I learnt a valuable lesson—that you shouldn’t allow your temper to get in the way of your performance. We continued to work together for 14 hours a day, for Faraar in the morning and Mausam in the evening, but I refused to talk to him. I was still very angry.
Ten days went by, and I went to see Aandhi. I loved the film, and particularly Haribhai’s performance. The next day, when we were shooting for Faraar, I went and knocked on his dressing room door and told him, “You really are an awful person and very irritating but because you are such a brilliant actor I would like to shake hands and make up. Just one request, if you’re going to be late, please let me know so that I can adjust my time as well.”
He heard what I had to say calmly. If he felt anything, he didn’t show that, and of course, he didn’t apologize. But he had a twinkle in his eyes. I think our friendship became stronger from that day on. I had accepted him the way he was.
Once I visited his home. When I went to his room, I was so taken aback. It didn’t look like a ‘star’s’ room at all. Every inch of his bed, every chair was stacked with either his clothes or his papers; there was no place for me to sit. Finally, I asked, “Haribhai, where do you want me to sit? On the floor?”
So he transferred some clothes from one chair to another and made some space for me. This was his lifestyle. He was comfortable anywhere, whether in a crammed room or working with an annoyed co-star. Puffing away on his cigarette, which couldn’t have done him any good because there was a genetic cardiac problem in the family, he always managed to stay at peace with himself.
On many occasions, he came to our house. Tiger [Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi, husband] liked him very much. They would drink and chat, and sometimes Haribhai would have one too many. I remember that, on one occasion, Haribhai had to hold one hand with the other to ensure that the spoon of food actually landed inside his mouth. He loved his alcohol. But he would ring up the next day to ask if he had misbehaved in any way. And I would tell him, ‘You only wiped your hands on the curtain. But not to worry, I will send you the laundry bill.’
On another occasion, I forgot his birthday. The next day at a shoot, I apologized to him for my lapse and wished him a belated happy birthday. One of our co-stars made a snide remark, “This is a very convenient excuse.”
But Haribhai instantly checked her and spoke in my defence, ‘If Rinku says it, she means it. She doesn’t make up stories like you.’ Which still makes me smile. I knew then that he really liked me.
He was extremely devoted to his family, and his mother meant the world to him. In between shots, among other things, he would discuss his marriage plans with me. His mother was looking for a bride for him, but he didn’t agree with his mother’s choice. He wanted someone who was beautiful and dignified and would understand and appreciate his work. In that context, he mentioned a couple of co-stars, but nothing ever came of them.
Excerpted with permission from Sanjeev Kumar: The Actor We All Loved by Reeta Ramamurthy Gupta and Uday Jariwala, published by HarperCollins India
A pensive Hari. According to Paresh Rawal, he had the ideal actor’s face: plenty of space for expression and an excellent sense of proportion. PICS COURTESY/Sanjeev Kumar: The Actor We All Loved, HarperCollins India
The great obsession of media, in those days, was to get Hari married. His relationships, marriage plans, Baa’s preferences, etc. were a hot selling point for the press. Courtesy/RJ Anirudh Chawla
Hari seen here bonding with Dharmendra
We are a family of working actors, and we all enjoy our work-Sharmila Tagore
8:26 AM
Bharti Dubey (E TIMES | BOMBAY TIMES; May 15, 2022)
Sharmila Tagore is making a comeback after a hiatus of 11 years. She will be seen sharing screen space with Amol Palekar, Manoj Bajpayee, Suraj Sharma and Simran Bagga in the film Gulmohar. Speaking to ETimes.in, the veteran actress recalls her experience of being back on sets and feeling at home in front of the camera.
Talking about what it was that prompted her to make a comeback after 11 years, she says, “It’s a very interesting role, different from the usual. It’s not just another grandmother character. I play my age. The script spoke to me, I looked forward to working with Manoj Bajpayee. I’m a big admirer of his. He was wonderful to work with. He internalises his work. He’s very prepared and always in character.”
Though the veteran actress was away from film sets for a while, it didn’t take her any time to feel comfortable in front of the camera. She says, “It felt so good. Our film was shot in homes, and it felt very real. It was not the studio atmosphere, where you just come and go. It was like we were living together for one month. It didn’t seem like I was entering an alien world, I felt the support and love.”
Ask her if she plans to take up more projects, and she says, “I’m not on Instagram, and I’m not so available like that. I said yes to this project, and I might do something again if things work out.”
Sharmila’s daughter-in-law Kareena Kapoor Khan has spoken about looking up to her mother-in-law in the personal and professional sphere. Any plans to work together in the near future? “The audience wants to see a good film at the end of the day. If the collaboration happens organically, then that’s a good thing, but nobody can force these things. Kareena is working on a lovely film. I’m very happy about that because this is the first shoot happening after the lockdown, and Saif has just finished another film. So, we are a family of working actors, and we all enjoy our work.”
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Sugandha Rawal (HINDUSTAN TIMES; May 15, 2022)
Actor Sharmila Tagore is all set to face the camera after 11 years. But, she doesn’t believe in calling it her comeback, for she had never quit. “I’m not coming back anywhere,” she states. “At one point in life, I was an actor every day, going for shoots daily. Slowly, I petered down, and then, I wasn’t working for a very long time,” Tagore says, adding that she led a life away from the arclight, busy with her engagements in association with UNICEF as well as her trust.
Last seen in Break Ke Baad (2010), the 75-year-old will star in Gulmohar alongside Manoj Bajpayee, Amol Palekar and others. “I liked the script and they were going to shoot in Delhi, which was wonderful, because I live in Delhi. I was a little nervous about taking a commercial flight due to Coronavirus, but I didn’t have to. It worked out convenient,” she tells us.
Going forward, will we get to see more of her on screen? “It depends on the script,” she continues, “Also, there are a lot of other things which I want to do in life. I want to travel, spend time with my grandchildren. I’ve got the responsibility of Pataudi palace... If I get a role that’s not stereotypical, I would be interested. But, I’m not looking to work just for the heck of it, because that part of me is over now.”
Besides her fans, her grandkids will also see her bring a character alive on screen after long. And this thought has got her a bit more excited. “I got a lovely message from Inaaya already, congratulating me, prompted by her mother of course. Taimur and Jeh aren’t allowed to watch films now, but I assume it will be different when they watch me on screen. Sara and Ibrahim will watch, and they better like it. They don’t have an option but to say, ‘Well done’!” she says with a hearty laugh.
Returning to a film set, she says, was like a perfect holiday. In fact, the Kashmir Ki Kali (1964) actor says she felt like a newcomer, bringing her own perception to the role.
“It was fun to work on a film with no pressure at all. It was something different from my life now. It was liberating, more like a wonderful holiday. That’s also because it is not my life anymore. My life right now is completely different. I’m not a working person anymore. I’m not going every day to work like everybody else, from one film to another,” she says, adding, “I worked in the film and now, I have gone back to my own life.”
Till superstition and patriarchy exist, Devi will remain important-Sharmila Tagore
8:14 AM
The actress remembers her ‘most appreciated performance’ ahead of the film’s release by an American home video distribution company
Shamayita Chakraborty (BOMBAY TIMES; September 18, 2021)
After The Apu Trilogy, Jalsaghar, Mahanagar and several other Satyajit Ray films, an American home video distribution company, which has restored some of the world’s best-known classics and critically successful movies, is set to release the legendary filmmaker’s Devi in October. After having bought the home video rights for The Apu Trilogy, Charulata, Mahanagar and Nayak, among others, they did ‘frame by frame’ restoration before distributing the films. Along with Ray’s classic, their October release list will have Lynne Ramsay’s Ratcatcher, The Incredible Shrinking Man, High Sierra, Kaneto Shindo’s Onibaba, and Josh and Benny Safdie’s Uncut Gems.
Devi, which was nominated for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1962, is still considered one of the finest films by Ray. Sharmila Tagore, who played Doyamoyee in the film, believes Devi is her “most appreciated performance”. “I was 14 when Manik da called me for Devi. It was made in 1959 and today, after so many years, it remains my favourite film and most appreciated performance,” she says.
Sharmila adds, “The film reflects the clash between orthodoxy and the rational thinking that came into vogue in the late 19th century. Doyamoyee, the character I play, is a young unlettered daughter-in-law in a very orthodox zamindar family, whose patriarch Kalikinkar (played by Chhabi Biswas) is an ardent devotee of Kali.”
But why does she think Devi is still relevant today, we ask. “The subject that is set in 1860 remains relevant even today. The conflict between religious orthodoxy and rationalism is as relevant today as it was then. There are dark pockets in India that still uphold superstition and women fall prey to age-old patriarchy. Till such a mindset exists, Devi will remain a very important film,” says the actress.
I don’t know the rationale behind abolition of FCAT-Sharmila Tagore
2:55 PM
Titas Chowdhury (HINDUSTAN TIMES; April 10, 2021)
“I don’t know the rationale behind this step, but it most certainly concerns film producers,” says Sharmila Tagore on the abolition of the Film Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT). Tagore, who was chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), from 2004 to 2011 had worked towards expanding and enhancing the functions of the FCAT and the values it stood for. Its sudden abolition has left many members of the film fraternity, including Tagore, disappointed.
“FCAT was another source to moderate the CBFC’s point of view,” she says, adding, “When I joined CBFC, there was already an FCAT. It was a body where, if producers had a difference of opinion with CBFC and were not happy with cuts or A-certificates, they could go to. Sometimes, FCAT went against us and at others they upheld our views. So, FCAT had the final say.”
Tagore emphasises she would have never abolished it. “During my tenure, I wanted to expand its mandate by referring to it all PILs initiated against films across the country. The only film we couldn’t go to FCAT with was Black Friday, as the Bombay blast was then subjudice.”
So, how will this move affect the film industry? “It will be a hassle for a producer to go to court as it is expensive and leads to a lot of delay. Even if they (film producers) come together and appeal to the government, they can work it out. Problem is that no one wants to come together,” Tagore rues.
Soumitra Chatterjee was known for his evening addas after shoots-Sharmila Tagore
8:11 AM
Sharmila Tagore remembers the Bengali screen stalwart as they both started their glorious journey in world cinema with Apur Sansar
Sharmila Tagore (MID-DAY; November 16, 2020)
I still vividly remember my first meeting with Soumitra during the shoot of Apur Sansar (1959). Since it was our first film, he asked me whether I was nervous, and I — a school girl then — retorted confidently, "Not in the least!" That was the ice-breaker. I believe Apur Sansar depicted young romance tenderly. In a scene, my character [Aparna] gets so involved while watching a mythological film that she bursts into tears. Soumitra's character [Apu] stops laughing on seeing how the scene has affected his wife. Manikda [Satyajit Ray] beautifully depicted the understanding between a husband and wife through that simple scene.
We went on to do many films together, and it was a joy to work with Soumitra every time. He was encouraging, and I learned so much from him. Every moment spent with him was an opportunity to learn. He was well-read, and didn't restrict himself to movies — he wrote and recited poetry, wrote plays and acted in them. A true artiste, he found joy in expressing himself through different creative forms. He was an inspiring figure as he had a positive mindset and refrained from being judgmental. He made the most of what life had to offer.
Soumitra wasn't a star like his contemporaries; he kept the actor in him alive. What I truly admired about him was that he would constantly work towards improving his skill. He was known for his addas in the evenings after the shoots. When we were filming Abar Aranye [2003] in north Bengal, we would gather every evening and listen to Soumitra and Subhendu Chatterjee as they discussed myriad topics. It was such a joy to hear somebody so well-read and erudite. I wish I had recorded those conversations!
As told to Upala KBR
People gave my marriage to Tiger just a year or two, at the most-Sharmila Tagore
7:57 AM
Itishree Misra (BOMBAY TIMES; May 20, 2018)
Sharmila Tagore was at her candid best, at a recent event in Lucknow. Although the event was titled Motherhood and work-life balance, the Chupke Chupke, Amar Prem, Mausam and Aradhana actress spoke on a variety of subjects, including the positive changes in Bollywood since when she was an active part of the industry, her marriage to Tiger Pataudi and her grandson Taimur.
PEOPLE SHOULD LAY OFF TAIMUR
The doting and protective grandmother in Sharmila came to the fore when one among the audience gushed about her grandson, one-and-a-half-year old Taimur Ali Khan, and how everyone found him to be one of the cutest kids. Flashing her dimpled smile, Sharmila said, “He’s very sweet. He’s talking now, but not in sentences, yet. He does say ‘Abba’ and ‘Amma’ sometimes, but not that clearly. It’s more of mumbling right now. Taimur is like any other child playing his usual things. He likes his car and his toys and he likes books.”
But the veteran actress also made it clear, in the same breath, how she disapproved of the attention showered over the kid by people and on social media. “I don’t approve of this social media attention and what they (people) are doing to Taimur. People are really stalking him! They are in front of his school, the play school that he goes too, following him when he’s going with his parents and it’s not really a good thing. Because, at the moment he’s young, but he’s still understanding cameras and stuff. So one can’t really not go out, to avoid this attention. There should be some kind of request to the people to lay off Taimur. Or maybe another baby will arrive someday and they will get bored of this one,” she said.
She admits that people advised her not to marry at the peak of her career. “People said that you’re at the peak of your career and marriage may affect it. But I feel there is a timing in everybody’s life. Yes, I had to give up a lot of films. But I didn’t fall off the ladder, so to speak because Aradhana was released after I was married and it became a runaway hit. Amar Prem, Mausam, all these films released after I got married and had Saif,” she said.
About her much-talked about romance and marriage to former Indian skipper Tiger Pataudi, Sharmila said, “Ours was a love marriage. We dated for a few years and it didn’t change our opinion of each other. Nobody gave us beyond one or two years but we carried on for much longer than expected by others,” she said with a smile.
About how the industry has changed over the years, Sharmila said, “The sets are now more comfortable. In our times, the toilets on the sets used to be terrible. Now there have been many improvements, actors have huge vans with separate washrooms. The audience’s acceptance of actors has also increased. Like Saif played a villain in Omkara and he was a hero in Love Aaj Kal. So, he was accepted in both roles. Even Priyanka Chopra played a vamp in one of the movies and people still love her as a heroine in others. But in our time, we couldn’t do that.”
I'm enjoying the company of babies at home-Sharmila Tagore
8:00 AM
Shamayita C (BOMBAY TIMES; October 28, 2017)
From debuting in stalwart,
filmmaker Satyajit Ray's Apur Sansar to becoming the begum sahiba of one
of India's most prestigious estates, veteran actress Sharmila Tagore
has lived a life nothing less than a dream. Her indomitable grace and
enigmatic smile made her the queen of hearts in the 1960s and 70s.
Currently shooting a music video in West Bengal, the actress speaks to
BT about her comeback, embracing age and her newborn grandchildren.
Excerpts...
It has been a while since one saw you in a movie. What's keeping you away from the studios?
Maybe people are not thinking or writing the kind of roles I can play. I would like to work but it has to be a good role.
Unlike other actresses who juggle family and career, you have an additional responsibility of managing an estate. How do you divide your time?
It's happened organically. I was with my daughter (Soha Ali Khan, who gave birth to a baby girl on September 19) when she was expecting. Before that, I was travelling with friends. Sometimes, I do everything, and then there are times when I don't want to do anything at all. Yes, managing the estate is not simple because you have to look into a lot of things when you are dealing with people and everyone seems to have some problem or the other. I am sure whoever has a big house will understand this but it's doable and I enjoy it.
There was a time when people only watched actors on the big screen. Today, they can connect with their matinee idols through social media and digital content. What's your take on the transition?
That's technological evolution. In this journey, every medium will have its relevance. Digital media has given people an opportunity to express themselves within a limited budget. While this gives you creative exposure, it also gives the audience a lot of variety. By spending less money, we get what we want. Also, often our taste is not in sync with what films offer in terms of entertainment. When you are catering to a big number, you try to please everyone, and often please no one.
Do you think stars might lose their charm if they become part of digital media content?
No, I think the attraction of the big screen and stars will always be there. But a lot of people would like to work in the digital space because it saves a lot of money. I might be wrong, but I think the impact of the small screen is comparatively less. Also, films have a longer shelf life.
In an industry where vanity matters, a lot of actresses of yore, including you, seem to have accepted age gracefully. What are your thoughts?
You can't stop growing old, it's inevitable. There will be physical changes and you have to adjust with it. Every age has its charm and beauty which you must accept. I know I am growing old and I can't escape it. I've never been away from public life, so people are privy to the way I grew old - I got married, I became a mother, I lost my husband and I became a grandmother. Now, I have grey hair and I don't use colour to hide it. If you are 70, you can't behave like an 18-year-old girl (laughs). Of course, I want to be fit. I should be able to touch my feet, walk and be agile. I emphasize on looking after myself. But I'm not interested in looking younger.
You have two new additions to your family - your son Saif Ali Khan's son Taimur and daughter Soha's daughter Inaaya Naumi. They must be keeping you on your toes, right?
I'm enjoying the company of these babies at home. They have certainly added to my happiness. It's wonderful to be with kids and see them around. But I'm also aware that time is limited. So I don't want to increase my maya with them. I'm quite occupied. My children take up a lot of time (laughs). I have friends, too. I'm enjoying the company of these two babies, but by the time they grow up, I don't know if I'll be around. I want to enjoy whatever time I have with them.
It has been a while since one saw you in a movie. What's keeping you away from the studios?
Maybe people are not thinking or writing the kind of roles I can play. I would like to work but it has to be a good role.
Unlike other actresses who juggle family and career, you have an additional responsibility of managing an estate. How do you divide your time?
It's happened organically. I was with my daughter (Soha Ali Khan, who gave birth to a baby girl on September 19) when she was expecting. Before that, I was travelling with friends. Sometimes, I do everything, and then there are times when I don't want to do anything at all. Yes, managing the estate is not simple because you have to look into a lot of things when you are dealing with people and everyone seems to have some problem or the other. I am sure whoever has a big house will understand this but it's doable and I enjoy it.
There was a time when people only watched actors on the big screen. Today, they can connect with their matinee idols through social media and digital content. What's your take on the transition?
That's technological evolution. In this journey, every medium will have its relevance. Digital media has given people an opportunity to express themselves within a limited budget. While this gives you creative exposure, it also gives the audience a lot of variety. By spending less money, we get what we want. Also, often our taste is not in sync with what films offer in terms of entertainment. When you are catering to a big number, you try to please everyone, and often please no one.
Do you think stars might lose their charm if they become part of digital media content?
No, I think the attraction of the big screen and stars will always be there. But a lot of people would like to work in the digital space because it saves a lot of money. I might be wrong, but I think the impact of the small screen is comparatively less. Also, films have a longer shelf life.
In an industry where vanity matters, a lot of actresses of yore, including you, seem to have accepted age gracefully. What are your thoughts?
You can't stop growing old, it's inevitable. There will be physical changes and you have to adjust with it. Every age has its charm and beauty which you must accept. I know I am growing old and I can't escape it. I've never been away from public life, so people are privy to the way I grew old - I got married, I became a mother, I lost my husband and I became a grandmother. Now, I have grey hair and I don't use colour to hide it. If you are 70, you can't behave like an 18-year-old girl (laughs). Of course, I want to be fit. I should be able to touch my feet, walk and be agile. I emphasize on looking after myself. But I'm not interested in looking younger.
You have two new additions to your family - your son Saif Ali Khan's son Taimur and daughter Soha's daughter Inaaya Naumi. They must be keeping you on your toes, right?
I'm enjoying the company of these babies at home. They have certainly added to my happiness. It's wonderful to be with kids and see them around. But I'm also aware that time is limited. So I don't want to increase my maya with them. I'm quite occupied. My children take up a lot of time (laughs). I have friends, too. I'm enjoying the company of these two babies, but by the time they grow up, I don't know if I'll be around. I want to enjoy whatever time I have with them.
Today’s heroines have a better chance in Bollywood-Sharmila Tagore
7:45 AM
MUMBAI MIRROR (October 26, 2017)
Sharmila Tagore, who was honoured on Tuesday with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Delhi’s Siri Fort Auditorium, said on the sidelines of the event that the life of a heroine during her hey days was not so exciting.
“During our times, it was nothing better than a good cry. We had to all look helpless...so, I think these people (heroines today) are having much more fun,” the veteran actress was recently quoted as saying.
Recounting the time when she played leading lady roles, Tagore added that heroines couldn’t be bad so it was the characters with negative or grey overtones who would be. “So Helen had all the fun. Also, we were working in three or four films at a time. So, maintaining a continuity was difficult because today Aamir Khan can put on and lose weight... we couldn’t do all that,” she added.
Talking about her repertoire of films, she said, “I like Safar and Mausam. People really like Amar Prem and Aradhana. The shelf life of these films is still there... but my favourite are the first two.”
About her favourite co-star, she said, “I liked Shashi (Kapoor) very much. He’s a friend. Of course, with Rajesh Khanna ji (Aaradhna, Amar Prem, Chhoti Bahu, Safar) I gave several hits, and Dharmendra (Mere Humdum Mere Dost, Chupke Chupke, Anupama, Ek Mahal Ho Sapnon Ka, among others).”
I wasn’t there so much for Saif as I was for Soha & Saba-Sharmila Tagore
7:50 AM
Sharmila Tagore on bringing up three children and coming to Mumbai more often now
Upala KBR (DNA; May 16, 2017)
Sharmila Tagore is candid and forthright while expressing her thoughts. The actress does very few films now and is happy to spend her time surrounded by family and friends. She shuttles between Delhi and her ancestral home in Pataudi. While son Saif recently became dad for the third time, her daughter Soha is now expecting her first baby. Here the actress talks about being a nani for the first time and the advice she has for her beti.
You became a daadi last year and will become a nani this year. How is it going to be different?
I don’t think there’s any difference as such in the family, but yes, it is a bit, as it’s my daughter now, who is giving birth. Kareena’s mum was more anxious when she was expecting as I am today when Soha is. It’s the mother-daughter bond. I think it’s quite a big decision for women to have children. In our time, I don’t think we thought so much about it. We just went and had them and of course, life is not fun-filled and not complete if you don’t have them. It’s a wonderful thing when you think about it. I felt so much closer to my mother after I had babies. It bonds a mother and daughter more.
Do you give Soha any advice on motherhood?
Of course I do, as all mothers would. Like my mother used to do when I was carrying Saif. I remember when Saif was a baby, the pediatrician had recommended that we give him orange juice to drink, but my mother said he was too small to be able to digest it and that I should dilute it with some water. I didn’t listen and Saif had a tummy-ache. I guess mothers do sometimes know best and it’s also the experience that counts. Yes, Soha does call me to ask for advice on what to do and I do advise her, but I also tell her to follow it up only after checking with the physician.
What stops you from moving back to Mumbai, where all of your kids live now?
Now that Soha is expecting, I will be coming to Mumbai more often. I like to come here, but I have my own life in Pataudi and Delhi. My responsibilities include looking after Pataudi. The palace needs maintenance and so, I need to be there for it. And I love meeting my friends whenever I can. But yes, I would love to come to Mumbai more often. Taimur is also growing up and I would like to spend more time with him too.
Soha is now expecting her first baby, do you recall the time you were expecting Saif?
I wasn’t there as much for Saif as I was for Soha and Saba as I wasn’t working so much then. I was very busy during Saif’s time and when he was growing up. I was doing double shifts, but I did have the support of my husband and also my neighbour Sunita Goswami, who also happened to be teaching at Saif’s Bohri-run school Saifee Mahal, which was a wonderful school run by Mrs Noorani. She was Saif’s second mother and she and her husband Jatin looked after him a lot. I was there for all his milestones, but I really wasn’t there for his day-to-day work.
And for Saba and Soha?
When the girls were born, I was less busy.
Between Saif, Saba and Soha, who shares your personality traits the most?
I think Saif does, Soha is more like her dad Tiger and Saba is a mixture of both of us. Saif and I are little bit more impulsive and less practical. He likes his freedom. As a child, he was more mischievous, Soha was more studious and practical, while Saba is the most creative one.
In your time, was Mother’s Day as big an occasion as it is today?
In my time, Mother’s Day wasn’t celebrated the way it is now. In fact, there used to be no Mother’s Day for a long time. After I became a mother, we’d have the traditional celebrations, where the mother or parents had to be honoured, though we didn’t have an English name for it. It was a part of every ritual that you had to follow with your family.
Kareena Kapoor has carried pregnancy her effortlessly and gracefully-Sharmila Tagore
8:19 AM
Sharmila Tagore exclusively talks to DNA After Hrs about being a grandmom all over again
Subhash K Jha (DNA; December 8, 2016)
She turns grandmother to son Saif Ali Khan and daughter-in-law’s Kareena Kapoor Khan’s first born in this month. The original Bengali Tigress cannot wait for the cub to arrive. She is proud of how Kareena has worked and kept herself active throughout the pregnancy. Here she talks about how she is proud of the mommy-to-be and how the whole clan is looking forward to the new addtion to the family. Read on...
Looking at Kareena during pregnancy one is reminded of you when you expecting Saif?
(Laughs) Kareena has been so lovely. She has carried pregnancy her effortlessly and gracefully…kisiki nazar na lag jaye. She is enjoying every moment of her pregnancy. She is dressing up, going out and being so natural and beautiful about it.
You did some of your best work during your pregnancy?
Yes, I did. For example, Safar. But while I was pregnant, I said no to many films, like Khilona, Tere Mere Sapne, Haathi Mere Saathi, Caravan, Kati Patang….films that made the careers of so many actresses.
Regret losing out on those roles?
I don’t regret it at all. One has to do everything at the right time. That includes motherhood. I am now enjoying this grandmotherly phase of my life.
Pregnancy didn’t affect your career?
Even if it had, I didn’t hide my pregnancy. Why should I have? I wanted to plan a family and that was my priority at that point of time. I didn’t want to hide my pregnancy and then distress my producers. They were all thankful to me.
You don’t look like a grandmother.
Do you know I don’t dye my hair, although it’s turning grey. Every age bracket has to be respected and embraced naturally.
How has life been treating you the past year?
Very well. I’ve been busy travelling. I travel quite a bit. Renovation work has been on in our ancestral home in Pataudi. So that keeps me busy. I also love gardening and reading. Saif is an avid reader. He points out books worth reading. I also solve a crossword every morning. Then there are family and friends to attend to. 24 hours aren’t enough.
How do you look back on the year?
The year started with Tiger’s (the late husband Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi) birth anniversary. And we had a wonderful cricket match on the occasion. And now, we want to institutionalise the match to celebrate the day every year. Now the year ends with the birth of Kareena and Saif’s child. I am quite looking forward to being a grandmother again. It can’t get any better. We are all looking forward to this.
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