Showing posts with label Sridevi interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sridevi interview. Show all posts
Jahnvi Kapoor must cultivate her craft all by herself, make her own choices-Sridevi
7:48 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; November 14, 2017)
Sridevi is like any other apprehensive parent as she awaits the commencement of her daughter’s acting debut. “But, the excitement overrules the nervousness,” the actor tells midday as Jahnvi’s Bollywood film, the Karan Johar production Dhadak, is set to kick-off next month.
Sridevi admits that as a mother, she “can’t help but give her tips about everything — from how to dress to what she eats”. Yet, the actor wants her elder daughter to chart her own trajectory in the industry. “Children have their own mind. When it comes to her work, I don’t want to advise. She must cultivate her craft all by herself, make her own choices and chart her own path."
In an industry that is quick to pit actors against each other, parallels are already being drawn between Kapoor junior and Saif Ali Khan’s daughter, Sara, also set to make her debut next year. Talking about the two aspiring artistes, Sridevi says, “Competition can never be eliminated from this industry. There is nothing wrong with it. It keeps you on your toes, making you work harder. But, the biggest challenge lay in bettering your craft, and faring better than you did the last time.”
Jahnvi already finds an aide in Khan, a friendship that doesn’t seem particularly peculiar to the veteran actor. “You don't have to turn your face away from each other just because you are pitted against one another at work,” she says.
I would love to have an app of my own-Sridevi
7:49 AM
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; August 9, 2017)
If Sonam Kapoor can, so can Sridevi Kapoor. Sridevi is quite popular on social media and regularly posts pictures on her Instagram account. Sonam was the first actress in B-Town to launch her own app, and other actresses like Disha Patani, Amy Jackson, Nargis Fakhri followed suit.
Apart from Salman Khan’s Being Human app, none of the actors from the ‘90s have an app of their own. Not even Shah Rukh Khan, although having one for his team Kolkata Knight Riders would surely find a large fan base.
However, Sri says, she’s keen on having an app of her own. “I would love to have an app of my own. It will be interesting to share a part of my life with my fans. I am completely open to it.”
Sridevi is also one of those senior actors, who has imbibed the social media atmosphere rather positively. She explains, “Social media helps me interact with my fans. It becomes easy for fans to connect with actors. That’s a huge positive of social media. I don’t really see the negative side in anything.”
Everyone has to deal with trolls and the nasty comments, including her daughters Janvi and Khushi, who are active on Instagram. Sridevi stresses that she has already spoken to her daughters about the ills of social media. “I’ve told my kids that this will happen. Whether they like it or not, there will be scrutiny. On social media and outside. I read somewhere that Jahnvi ran after Ranbir (Kapoor) at a party. She was upset about that news because that was not what had happened. I told her that she has to just brush it all aside. When you take the positives, you also have to learn to accept the negatives of this space too.”
Alia Bhatt would fit the role perfectly in Chaalbaaz remake-Sridevi
10:50 AM
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; July 11, 2017)
It’s been a long time since Sridevi has acted in a comedy. Some of her most memorable films have seen her in comic roles — Himmatwala, Mr India, and Chalbaaz to name a few.
Judwaa, in which Salman Khan played a double role is being remade. Now, it begs to be asked who would Sridevi like to see in the remake of her comedy film Chalbaaz. She was seen in a double role in the movie.
Sridevi says, “I think Chalbaaz will make for a great remake now. Alia would fit the role perfectly. She is spontaneous and an extremely natural actor. She can look vulnerable, innocent and at the same time, she can be smart and mischievous too,” she reasons. We agree.
Meanwhile...‘I want to do Mr India’
However, Alia Bhatt is keen to star in the remake of Sridevi’s other cult classic
Most ’90s kids have seen and enjoyed Mr India. And Alia Bhatt is no different. The sequel is being planned currently, and Alia is admittedly a fan of the classic.
While Sridevi feels Alia is perfect for the Chalbaaz remake, the Highway actress has a different choice. She says, “I would love to do Sridevi’s role from Mr India. I love that film and I think everyone does. It’s been three decades since Mr India released, but it still is a crowd favourite. If you ask me about remakes, this is one film I would love to do.”
Khushi says she wants to get into modelling-Sridevi
9:01 AM
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; July 7, 2017)
That Jahnvi Kapoor is making her film debut is now certain. Her mother Sridevi has admitted that she would’ve preferred Janvi to have married and settled down instead of facing the arclights. All eyes are now on her younger daughter Khushi. While, Sridevi is going all out to support her elder daughter, Khushi is waiting in the wings. Meanwhile, Sridevi is waiting for her daughter to tell her about her showbiz plans.
Facing the arclights
Like mom Sridevi, both her daughters seem to be drawn to the glamour world. While Jahnvi has picked films, Khushi seems to be inclined towards the runway. And the actress is well aware of her younger daughter’s ambition. “Yes, Khushi says she wants to get into modelling. Pehle, she wanted to become a doctor. Phir doctor se lawyer and now it’s modelling. So, I am waiting for the shock to happen.” And considering the trend that has seen many models eventually make the transition from the runway to the big screen, it will just be a small leap for the star daughter from the ramp to cinema.
Ready for the leap
The fact that Jahnvi will be heading to showbiz first, seems to have put the protective mother at ease. She agrees that it won’t be much of a surprise. “Woh instalment mein aa chuka hai. So yes, thanks to Jahnvi, we are now more comfortable with the idea of Khushi (in films) too.” Khushi knows whom to thank for laying the path for her where parental support is concerned.
When you are a public figure, you can't be a recluse-Sridevi
5:02 AM
Sridevi refutes claims that she’s an introvert and reveals she had once imagined herself as a lawyer like her father and ended up in courtrooms but only in films
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; July 6, 2017)
She was a superstar in her time and even today, when she comes out of a four-year hibernation, Sridevi manages to spark off plenty of excitement. But while the actress is all fire on screen, away from the cameras she’s usually seen sitting quietly in a corner waiting to get into action. Her reticence recently prompted her Mom co-star, Akshaye Khanna, to quip, “I thought I was borderline reclusive but Sridevi takes being a private person to a whole different level. She is the ultimate non-communicator. I haven’t seen this quality in actors in a long time. No one can be friends with us unless they have known us for years, there can never be an icebreaking moment and I love it!”
Sridevi, however, was quick to refute Akshaye’s observation, reasoning, “When you are a public personality, you can’t afford to be a recluse. If I sit quietly in a corner waiting for the camera to roll, it doesn’t mean that I am aloof and cut off from people. It could be that I am thinking about the shot or going over my lines.”
She points towards Nawazuddin Siddiqui, another Mom co-star, admitting that she was impressed with the actor and keen to see how he prepped up for a shot. “It’s the same. He also sits in a corner, learning his lines. But as soon as the camera is on, he blows everyone away!” she exclaims, recalling how her late father always insisted that empty vessels make the most noise.
Her father was a lawyer and Sridevi recalls going to court with him sometimes when she was a child and watching wide-eyed as he argued a case before the judge. “I worshipped him and there was a time when I toyed with the idea of becoming a lawyer too. But eventually I ended up in a courtroom only in films and they were very different from the ones I had seen in real life with lots of natak and melodrama. I remember my father and the lawyer on the opposite side being friends, laughing and joking with each other outside the courtroom. But in our movies, they are usually sworn enemies. I guess we are entitled to some creative liberties,” she smiles.
Quiz her on her favourite screen moments and she immediately recalls her ode to Charlie Chaplin in husband Boney Kapoor’s fantasy adventure Mr India. “I’m a fan and playing him on screen was a dream come true. It was initially supposed to be only one scene with a few shots but because I was enjoying myself so much in the get-up and the whole unit concurred that it looked good, Shekhar Kapur, the film’s director, turned it into an item with plenty of improvisations on the set and the one-day shoot stretched to eleven days. It went on to become one of the film’s highlights,” she reminisces.
The almost nine-minute sequence when she enters a gambling den as Charlie, tripping over her feet, tickling the goons, acting goofy and being spoofy, was a riot. And as unforgettable was the sensuous “Kaate nahin katti te” which rates among her favourite songs, along with Chalbaaz’s “Na Jaane Kahan Se Aaye hai”. “I’ve enjoyed all my songs but remember these two in particular because I was really unwell when we were filming them, burning with fever but they turned out well,” she shares.
She gave the nod to her upcoming thriller Mom after she was floored by a one-line idea pitched by Boney about a mother trying to save her daughter who is in trouble. She points out that you find incredible strength when your child is in trouble and you wonder if there are any real life parallels.
“Fortunately neither of my two daughters have been in a situation like this and thank God for it,” she says fervently. “But I am a huge darpok as far as doctors, medicines and injections go. I fall to pieces when I am hurt but when it comes to my children, I am a pillar of strength, applying balm and bandages and dressing up their wounds.” Awwww!
The memories that you share with your mother never leave you-Sridevi
1:38 PM
It was a rainy evening when Sridevi entered the room full of journalists and immediately, all eyes turned to her. She was having a no-make up look and yet, it was difficult to take one's eyes off her. She apologized for the delay and enquired whether we had water and tea/coffee. It was great to see the actress, who is extremely shy and who doesn't open up easily, but ended up talking like an extroverted person. Even during the course of the interview, she surprised everyone as she talked in detail not only about her upcoming film 'MOM', but also about other aspects like her real-life daughters, the process of choosing a film, how her own mother shaped her into a well-mannered human being and a lot more. She also shared some interesting anecdotes form the 80s era and at regular intervals, raised laughs too! Here are some excerpts from this very memorable interview.
Just a few days are left for the release of 'MOM'. What kind of emotions are you going through at present?
It seems like I have given a crucial exam and now I am waiting for the results! It's a special film – every film is special but this one is extra special – as it's our home production. I got a chance to work with so many talented people for the first time. I feel lucky that previously, I got a chance to work with Gauri Shinde in 'English Vinglish' and this time, I got a chance to work with Ravi Udyawar. He's fantastic and has done a tremendous job.
What are the criteria for you while signing a film?
I just choose a film while thinking from my heart, not from my brain. When I hear a subject, it should touch my heart. I should feel good about the story.
How was it working with Akshaye Khanna? He said in a recent interview that it was difficult to work with you since you are so good at your work!
It was great working with him. It's rare to work with a talent like him. He's a very dignified, quiet and a very well brought up child. His personality is so powerful that he doesn't even have to do anything – his smile, eyes or his mere presence is enough to lift up a scene.
Did Akshaye Khanna remind you of his father, Vinod Khanna?
Akshaye definitely has the charm and style of Vinod ji. As a performer, however, he has his own identity.
In today's times when so many films have fallen prey to Censor Board's scissors, were you happy to see that 'MOM' was passed with a U/A certificate and zero cuts?
Of course I was happy when I got to know that the film has been passed without a single cut. I am really grateful to the Censor Board. From the beginning, we were sure of one thing that 'MOM' is a family film. I want all the children and the parents to see the film. Boney ji (Boney Kapoor, producer and her husband) and Ravi were particular about it from the first day.
How much does the title of the film mean to you? Could you tell us some interesting anecdote about your own mother (Rajeswari)?
Well, it's the most special relation of your life. The memories that you share with your mother never leave you. You keep missing her everyday of your life. It is very difficult to explain in words. My mother was never strict but she was always there for me when I was working as a child actor. Whether we are shooting in the rains or in snow or in extremely hot weather, she was there to ensure I was comfortable. Because of that, I don't remember an instance wherein I have complained that "I am not well or I am tired and hence I won't shoot today." My mother also taught me a lot of important lessons like I should respect elders, be punctual, give my 100% etc.
You are a strong mother in real life as well. After doing this film, what lessons did you learn that you'd like to impart to your children?
I don't need to give any message to my daughters Jahnvi and Khushi. They are very sensible. There's a dialogue in 'MOM', "Usse samjhaane ki nahin, humein usse samajne ki zaroorat hai" (we don't to have to make her understand, rather we should understand her). It's an important dialogue and I am sure the teens are going to love it! And I completely agree with it – why lecture kids? Rather, we should be empathetic to the stress they go through.
What kind of mother are you?
I am more like a friend to my daughters. Sometimes, I am strict but not very. Thankfully, my kids have never given me the opportunity to run behind them with a stick in my hand (laughs). They know where I am coming from. They understand what I am trying to say and why and in turn, I also listen to them. They are from a different generation after all. I cannot expect my children to be the way I was with my mother. With time, the parents should also change.
How did your daughters react after watching the film?
My elder daughter Jahnvi didn't say a word. She just hugged me. I felt really good! Boney ji had seen the film at every stage and even he's happy with the final product. Khushi however has seen the rushes and not seen the final cut. She'll watch it soon with her friends. But more than our reaction, it's important that the audiences enjoy the film and come out of the theatre satisfied!
What does Sridevi have to say when she saw Sridevi on the big screen in 'MOM'?
Actors are never satisfied watching themselves on the screen. I am constantly thinking that "I could have done a better job." We never pat our backs after watching ourselves.
When is Jahnvi making her debut? In the remake of which film of yours would you like to see Jahnvi in?
It's not my work to choose a film for Jahnvi. Also, it's too early for me to talk about her impending debut.
But there are too many articles about her floating in the media. There have been reports that she's doing a film with Ranbir Kapoor, Ishaan Khattar etc...
I just don't want to talk about it. It's very disturbing and I don't feel the need to say anything.
What made you took such a long gap between your last Hindi film, 'English Vinglish' (2012)? It came almost five years ago...
There was no conscious decision as such. I don't plan anything in my life. I actually never thought that I'll do 'English Vinglish' after 15 long years. But that film fell in my lap and I went for it. Same goes for 'MOM'. Two years had passed since 'English Vinglish' and I was enjoying its success. Then I got 'MOM' and I felt I should do it. That's it.
The character that you played in 'English Vinglish' was loved by one and all. Many women, who can't speak English, were able to relate with your character. Do you think that the same kind of impact will happen with 'MOM' as well?
The character in 'English Vinglish' was very simple and yes, everybody identified with her. I never thought that would happen. Not just mothers, even the daughters felt guilty and called their mothers after seeing the film. This was unexpected and I just don't know whether the same will happen with 'MOM'.
Credit however should go to you for playing that character so well! It touched everyone's hearts...
I'll however like to credit my director Gauri. She had a clear vision and I merely followed her instructions. But at the same time, artistes tend to be very observant. I had observed my aunt dressing up like my character Shashi. She was an office-going, well-educated lady though. As a child, I used to admire the way she used to talk and walk. I remembered her while prepping for the film and I used her mannerisms. So subconsciously, you start keeping real-life people's characteristics in the back of your mind and when playing a character, you remember them and use them accordingly.
You have touched the peak of stardom. Did you ever have a 'now-what-next' moment?
I never felt like I have reached the peak. As an actor, I feel that every film is a learning process. I always think how I can be a better actor. I never thought that I have reached the topmost position. There's no boundary for an actor. You can keep growing as much as you want.
Did you have any goal that you have to reach a certain stage? And besides acting, was there anything else that interested you?
My only goal was to do good work, work hard and give my 100%. I never knew how big I will become. I always left that to the audience.
How much has the film industry changed in all these years according to you?
Definitely, there have been a lot of changes. The director and the way of taking a shot are all the same though. Technically however, it's unbelievable. The environment has changed. Then, we used to shoot on a film. After 10 retakes, we could see the producer in tension, with his hands on his head! He used to wonder what he'll do if the reel gets over and there's not enough stock left. It was a big thing then. But now it's all digital. You can take as many takes as you want till you get it right. There's also a monitor. Most importantly, we now have vanity vans (laughs)! I have shot in places like Rajahmundry, Visakhapatnam etc for films like 'Himmatwala' (1983), 'Maqsad' (1984), 'Devatha' (1982; Telugu film) etc where we had to go behind a tree, make a makeshift curtain around and then change clothes. And now with vanity vans, it feels like a golden period! Whole day I used to not drink water as the toilet facilities used to be very bad. In fact, I am so used to not having sufficient water even today!
You have done a lot of rain songs in your life...
(Cuts in) It was sheer torture!
...but most of them were hits like the one in 'Mr India', 'Chaalbaaz' etc. In real life, how much do you enjoy rainy season?
I am an outdoor person. I like to sit in my garden, going out in the evening for a walk or to jog. But it's difficult to all these activities in the rains. As for the rain songs, I never enjoyed it. During the shoot of most of such songs, I used to have a high temperature.
It's been 30 years since 'Mr India' released. How do you look back at the film? Even today's generation enjoy the film as much...
It's very heartening. People constantly ask me as to when we are coming up with 'Mr India 2'. One day, it will be made for sure. But again, it's too early to talk about it.
Just like you, there have been many actresses who left acting post marriage and then made a comeback. But the way you made a comeback, nobody else could do it. Some actresses have even wondered where they have gone wrong and why they couldn't follow your footsteps. Raveena Tandon has admitted this on record. Your comments?
As I said, there was no conscious decision. It was sheer coincidence that Gauri thought of me and offered me 'English Vinglish'. And I always go by my instincts. I felt like it's a film that I'll be able to relate and hence, I went for it. Otherwise, how big a film will become commercially is something that's not in my hands.
Shooting se darr nahin lagta hai, promotion se lagta hai-Sridevi
8:02 AM
Madhureeta Mukherjee (BOMBAY TIMES; July 2, 2017)
She was a megastar, she
still is. An actress for whom the biggest filmmakers mounted lavish
projects, in an era that was massively male-dominated. Such was the magic
of this matinee queen. While she sensuously swayed in her classic
chiffons, million of hearts went aflutter. Sridevi could slip into being
Chandni or Charlie Chaplin with as much flair and brilliance. Or break
barriers, linguistic ones
too, and make a stellar comeback with a film (English Vinglish) after 15
years. Tell her all this flatteringly, and she looks back at you
casually and says, “I am very simple, all these praises scare me. I feel
like a newcomer.“
Comfortably settled on her couch for a long chat, sans make-up, her large eyes beam through her thick-rimmed glasses, as she talks about her upcoming film, Mom. And of course, she tells stories about how she raised her daughters as a superstar mom. Read on...
Mom is your 300th film, and you also complete fifty years as an actress. Is there anything about your career you would do differently, if you had a chance?
Not at all! I wouldn't want to change anything about my career. I hadn't planned any of this; it fell into my lap and I am grateful to God for it. I just want it to remain like this. My mom and I never thought that I would make my way into Bollywood. I was happy doing films down South. When my first Hindi film Solva Sawan (the 1979 remake of a Tamil film) was being made, I thought... 'Yeh picture toh South main hit ho gaya, so they are making it in a different language'. That's all. Then, I came to know that the film didn't do well and I went back to doing other Southern language films. It was as simple as that. Before Himmatwala (1983) happened, the producers had taken my dates for another Telugu film, and all of a sudden, they said that they weren't doing that movie anymore, instead, they were doing a Hindi film with Jeetendra. My first reaction was that if my Hindi debut was a flop, then why do they want me to do another film? They didn't bother to hear me out and went ahead with it. I kept thinking that these people are mad to be doing this (laughs!). I am glad that I did Himmatwala because after that, one film led to the other. Talking about Mom, the moment I heard it, I was drawn to the subject. It touched my heart. I had a good feeling about it and I always go by my instinct.
Your co-actors say that working with you is an opportunity of a lifetime. You were even called the first female superstar and I am sure many such titles rest on your mantle, and yet, you insist that you are a newcomer...
All these labels and praises scare me. I am very simple and I feel like a newcomer because I never stopped learning. I feel there is so much more to learn about the craft, in fact, this is just the beginning. Times have changed. In the earlier days, sometimes when we were on the set, we would ask the director, 'Sir, dialogues de do'. Meanwhile, the writer is sitting somewhere on the set and penning the dialogues. The team would tell us, 'Garam garam aa raha hai scene', but now, we can't function like that. The bound script is already with you, and you are well aware of the mood of the scene, your look, the clothes and everything else. But I guess, that was the style back then; people still did a great job and it worked in that era. Today, films are made differently and there are so many heroine-oriented movies. Filmmakers are willing to take chances, and explore these subjects. It is the best time to be in the industry and there is so much more I want to learn as an actress. I never went through a phase in my career when I said, 'This is enough; I don't want to do this anymore'. Acting has always been my passion.
You come from an era when stars were super exclusive. Nowadays, they interact directly with the fans, they chat with their fan clubs, et al. How have you coped with this huge change?
It is an amazing change and it is for the better, as fans can communicate with their favourite actors and share their views; we can also know their reactions directly. Earlier, we did maximum two-three interviews and left the rest to the fate of the film. Now, the promotions have become so aggressive, but we have to change with the times. I always say this dialogue (borrowed from Dabangg), 'Shooting se darr nahin lagta hai, promotion se lagta hai'. I had to cope with it, I had no choice. I joined social media during English Vinglish (2012) because I was coming back on screen after 15 years and the team thought that I should be a more happening mom. Yes, earlier, there was a certain beauty in the exclusivity and privacy we had, but now, we are clicked everywhere and anywhere - at airports, restaurants, salons, gyms - and we always have to be on our toes and see who is around us. Today, even if we want to keep our life private, I don't think that it is possible.
Actors who have worked with you say that you take 'being private' to a different level. Are you really so reserved, or do you fiercely guard your private life?
Some people think that I am very arrogant, but I am genuinely a very private and shy person. I open up to people who are close to me, and with them, I am a different person. So, I think that at times, my shyness has been perceived by some people as arrogance.
Boney Kapoor is producing a film with you after long. We heard that your daughters, Jhanvi and Khushi, were also very involved. There must be a lot of excitement at home about Mom...
Boneyji is very excited. Yes, he is doing a film with me after 20 years, the last one was Judaai. He's on top of the world seeing the reactions Mom's trailer has garnered. It was like a home production, where all of us were involved. We were looking for some one fresh and good-looking to play my husband and Jhanvi showed us Adnan Siddiqui's (Pakistani actor) picture. We all liked him right away and reached out to him. The director of the film, Ravi Udyawar, is new and I am often asked why I am working with new directors. I say, 'Why not?' I am lucky that I got a chance to work with Gauri Shinde (English Vinglish) and now, Ravi. He had a great vision for Mom and he was so passionate about it that I couldn't imagine any one else doing justice to the film.
We also heard that Boney and you would barely interact while shooting for the film on outdoor locations. Now, that's a different level of professionalism...
Really? I don't think that it is a big deal. When I am shooting, I don't want to see my husband around or even remember that he is my husband; I just want to focus on my work. Yes, it's true that I barely conversed with him while shooting; we were staying on different floors and just wished each other good morning and good night.
When you are doing an intense role like the one in Mom, or maybe one of your older films like Sadma (1983) - do you feel emotionally sapped? How much of the character and the emotion do you carry back home with you after the shoot is over?
Actually, Sadma wasn't an emotionally draining film for me; it must have been for the audience. I was playing a woman who was like a child; it was Kamal Haasan's character that was intense and very emotional towards the end. Jhanvi saw the movie when she was around six years old and she didn't talk to me for three days. She told me, 'You are a bad mamma. You were so mean to him'. I think Mom was an intense film for me. One of my friends who met me during the shoot and afterwards told me that I was a different person while shooting for the film. She said, 'Even the way you were walking and talking had changed. Now you are back to what you really are'. Interestingly, I didn't even realise that. It is a very emotional character, so I guess somewhere, it must have consumed a lot of my emotional energy. For me, all this lingers while the film is going on. After that, I switch back to normal, or else my children will throw me out (laughs!).
As a superstar mom, did you find yourself struggling to give your daughters a normal upbringing?
I brought up my kids the way my mom raised me. She gave me a normal upbringing, and when I had children, I did just that. When I am on the set, I am an actress, but at home, I am like any other mom. Of course, I tried to guard them as much as I could, but they were clicked everywhere we went and we couldn't help that.
There is so much talk about Jhanvi's launch and she has a huge role model at home to look up to...
I know that there is a lot of curiosity about her launch, but I want to say that it will be very unfair to compare Jhanvi with me. I began as a child artiste, I had done 60-70 films and I knew a lot about shooting, camera and filmmaking by the time I was her age.When Jhanvi does her first film, people should judge her as an individual, instead of comparing her with me. My journey has been long. So, it will be unfair to compare a girl who is just starting out her career with someone who has done 300 films.
The thought that she will be in the same space that you have been in for so many decades... does that make you nervous?
I guess it is a different feeling though it has not started yet. I never thought that she will go through this. I thought that she will study, do something else and then get married. And I will be free (laughs!). Today, children have their own mind and I have seen how my mom supported me, so I will support her in whatever she is willing to do.
Sometime around 2012, you had said that Jhanvi will not be an actress. How did that change?
At that time, she was younger and I thought that I could mould her and tell her what I wanted her to do (smiles!). Then, the shock dropped on me like a bomb. I thought that there is no running away from this and I have to face it. When she told me that she wanted to be an actress, I told her that there will be many problems and it won't be an easy ride. It is a very tough world out there and being an actress comes with a lot of hard work and sacrifice. As a mother, I obviously thought, 'Why should my child go through this? I have worked so hard for so many years... ab sab settle ho gaya. Let them have a peaceful life'. Having said that, I believe that whatever I am today, I owe it to this industry. I have so much respect for it. Stardom has never been easy and even going ahead, it won't be. If Jhanvi has made this choice, I have to be there for her. I will take it up positively and give it my 100% as a mom. My close friends tell me that I have to be strong about it and take care of myself. Well, it looks like I have to prepare myself more than her. With Jhanvi doing films, it feels like I am starting all over again.
Comfortably settled on her couch for a long chat, sans make-up, her large eyes beam through her thick-rimmed glasses, as she talks about her upcoming film, Mom. And of course, she tells stories about how she raised her daughters as a superstar mom. Read on...
Mom is your 300th film, and you also complete fifty years as an actress. Is there anything about your career you would do differently, if you had a chance?
Not at all! I wouldn't want to change anything about my career. I hadn't planned any of this; it fell into my lap and I am grateful to God for it. I just want it to remain like this. My mom and I never thought that I would make my way into Bollywood. I was happy doing films down South. When my first Hindi film Solva Sawan (the 1979 remake of a Tamil film) was being made, I thought... 'Yeh picture toh South main hit ho gaya, so they are making it in a different language'. That's all. Then, I came to know that the film didn't do well and I went back to doing other Southern language films. It was as simple as that. Before Himmatwala (1983) happened, the producers had taken my dates for another Telugu film, and all of a sudden, they said that they weren't doing that movie anymore, instead, they were doing a Hindi film with Jeetendra. My first reaction was that if my Hindi debut was a flop, then why do they want me to do another film? They didn't bother to hear me out and went ahead with it. I kept thinking that these people are mad to be doing this (laughs!). I am glad that I did Himmatwala because after that, one film led to the other. Talking about Mom, the moment I heard it, I was drawn to the subject. It touched my heart. I had a good feeling about it and I always go by my instinct.
Your co-actors say that working with you is an opportunity of a lifetime. You were even called the first female superstar and I am sure many such titles rest on your mantle, and yet, you insist that you are a newcomer...
All these labels and praises scare me. I am very simple and I feel like a newcomer because I never stopped learning. I feel there is so much more to learn about the craft, in fact, this is just the beginning. Times have changed. In the earlier days, sometimes when we were on the set, we would ask the director, 'Sir, dialogues de do'. Meanwhile, the writer is sitting somewhere on the set and penning the dialogues. The team would tell us, 'Garam garam aa raha hai scene', but now, we can't function like that. The bound script is already with you, and you are well aware of the mood of the scene, your look, the clothes and everything else. But I guess, that was the style back then; people still did a great job and it worked in that era. Today, films are made differently and there are so many heroine-oriented movies. Filmmakers are willing to take chances, and explore these subjects. It is the best time to be in the industry and there is so much more I want to learn as an actress. I never went through a phase in my career when I said, 'This is enough; I don't want to do this anymore'. Acting has always been my passion.
You come from an era when stars were super exclusive. Nowadays, they interact directly with the fans, they chat with their fan clubs, et al. How have you coped with this huge change?
It is an amazing change and it is for the better, as fans can communicate with their favourite actors and share their views; we can also know their reactions directly. Earlier, we did maximum two-three interviews and left the rest to the fate of the film. Now, the promotions have become so aggressive, but we have to change with the times. I always say this dialogue (borrowed from Dabangg), 'Shooting se darr nahin lagta hai, promotion se lagta hai'. I had to cope with it, I had no choice. I joined social media during English Vinglish (2012) because I was coming back on screen after 15 years and the team thought that I should be a more happening mom. Yes, earlier, there was a certain beauty in the exclusivity and privacy we had, but now, we are clicked everywhere and anywhere - at airports, restaurants, salons, gyms - and we always have to be on our toes and see who is around us. Today, even if we want to keep our life private, I don't think that it is possible.
Actors who have worked with you say that you take 'being private' to a different level. Are you really so reserved, or do you fiercely guard your private life?
Some people think that I am very arrogant, but I am genuinely a very private and shy person. I open up to people who are close to me, and with them, I am a different person. So, I think that at times, my shyness has been perceived by some people as arrogance.
Boney Kapoor is producing a film with you after long. We heard that your daughters, Jhanvi and Khushi, were also very involved. There must be a lot of excitement at home about Mom...
Boneyji is very excited. Yes, he is doing a film with me after 20 years, the last one was Judaai. He's on top of the world seeing the reactions Mom's trailer has garnered. It was like a home production, where all of us were involved. We were looking for some one fresh and good-looking to play my husband and Jhanvi showed us Adnan Siddiqui's (Pakistani actor) picture. We all liked him right away and reached out to him. The director of the film, Ravi Udyawar, is new and I am often asked why I am working with new directors. I say, 'Why not?' I am lucky that I got a chance to work with Gauri Shinde (English Vinglish) and now, Ravi. He had a great vision for Mom and he was so passionate about it that I couldn't imagine any one else doing justice to the film.
We also heard that Boney and you would barely interact while shooting for the film on outdoor locations. Now, that's a different level of professionalism...
Really? I don't think that it is a big deal. When I am shooting, I don't want to see my husband around or even remember that he is my husband; I just want to focus on my work. Yes, it's true that I barely conversed with him while shooting; we were staying on different floors and just wished each other good morning and good night.
When you are doing an intense role like the one in Mom, or maybe one of your older films like Sadma (1983) - do you feel emotionally sapped? How much of the character and the emotion do you carry back home with you after the shoot is over?
Actually, Sadma wasn't an emotionally draining film for me; it must have been for the audience. I was playing a woman who was like a child; it was Kamal Haasan's character that was intense and very emotional towards the end. Jhanvi saw the movie when she was around six years old and she didn't talk to me for three days. She told me, 'You are a bad mamma. You were so mean to him'. I think Mom was an intense film for me. One of my friends who met me during the shoot and afterwards told me that I was a different person while shooting for the film. She said, 'Even the way you were walking and talking had changed. Now you are back to what you really are'. Interestingly, I didn't even realise that. It is a very emotional character, so I guess somewhere, it must have consumed a lot of my emotional energy. For me, all this lingers while the film is going on. After that, I switch back to normal, or else my children will throw me out (laughs!).
As a superstar mom, did you find yourself struggling to give your daughters a normal upbringing?
I brought up my kids the way my mom raised me. She gave me a normal upbringing, and when I had children, I did just that. When I am on the set, I am an actress, but at home, I am like any other mom. Of course, I tried to guard them as much as I could, but they were clicked everywhere we went and we couldn't help that.
There is so much talk about Jhanvi's launch and she has a huge role model at home to look up to...
I know that there is a lot of curiosity about her launch, but I want to say that it will be very unfair to compare Jhanvi with me. I began as a child artiste, I had done 60-70 films and I knew a lot about shooting, camera and filmmaking by the time I was her age.When Jhanvi does her first film, people should judge her as an individual, instead of comparing her with me. My journey has been long. So, it will be unfair to compare a girl who is just starting out her career with someone who has done 300 films.
The thought that she will be in the same space that you have been in for so many decades... does that make you nervous?
I guess it is a different feeling though it has not started yet. I never thought that she will go through this. I thought that she will study, do something else and then get married. And I will be free (laughs!). Today, children have their own mind and I have seen how my mom supported me, so I will support her in whatever she is willing to do.
Sometime around 2012, you had said that Jhanvi will not be an actress. How did that change?
At that time, she was younger and I thought that I could mould her and tell her what I wanted her to do (smiles!). Then, the shock dropped on me like a bomb. I thought that there is no running away from this and I have to face it. When she told me that she wanted to be an actress, I told her that there will be many problems and it won't be an easy ride. It is a very tough world out there and being an actress comes with a lot of hard work and sacrifice. As a mother, I obviously thought, 'Why should my child go through this? I have worked so hard for so many years... ab sab settle ho gaya. Let them have a peaceful life'. Having said that, I believe that whatever I am today, I owe it to this industry. I have so much respect for it. Stardom has never been easy and even going ahead, it won't be. If Jhanvi has made this choice, I have to be there for her. I will take it up positively and give it my 100% as a mom. My close friends tell me that I have to be strong about it and take care of myself. Well, it looks like I have to prepare myself more than her. With Jhanvi doing films, it feels like I am starting all over again.
Boney Kapoor & I had our fair share of fights while working together in Mom-Sridevi
8:04 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 26, 2017)
"The audience is too clever, you can’t fool them,” says Sridevi, ahead of the release of her upcoming film, Mom, which marks her 300th movie in the industry, and her first in five years, after her 2012 comeback vehicle, English Vinglish. “We can feel that we’ve created a masterpiece, but, people can come out calling it absolute nonsense,” she says of the thriller, which has been produced by her husband, Boney Kapoor.
Unlike several contemporaries, who’ve failed to make a mark at the box office, or even in cinephiles’ minds, with their comeback films, Sridevi’s return has established her yet again in an ever-evolving showbiz industry. One might assume that the natural next step for an actress of her stature would be to delve into the movie-making business. But Sridevi doesn’t bat an eyelid before confessing, “Direction is not my cup of tea.” She says, “It’s a big job and comes with too much responsibility. Why should I burden myself? Giving suggestions to directors, discussing themes and providing creative inputs are things that actors do anyway. I will never turn producer. Ghar mein ek producer kaafi hai. I will support Boneyji.”
Sridevi’s refusal to turn producer doesn’t mean she’s away from the filmmaking business. She is always involved in her husband’s productions, whether she features in them or not. “I am there for the narration, and script-reading sessions. We have long discussions about the plot and loop holes. Boneyji is someone with a mind of his own. On Mom, we debated a lot. But, we both believe that healthy arguments go a long way in honing the final product. We had our fair share of fights while working together in Mom, but we were on the same page.”
A sequel to her 1987 romance drama, Mr India, is “definitely” in the pipeline, but the actress confesses that she has yet to decide if she will feature in it. “The script is still being developed. Boneyji has a few ideas that are being worked on. Who knows, there could be an announcement around the corner.”
Mr India 2 is definitely on; I want Boney Kapoor ji to make it-Sridevi
8:06 AM
Hiren Kotwani (BOMBAY TIMES; June 25, 2017)
While 2017 seems to be the
year of sequels some films have released and several others are lined up
-there is one sequel that has been waiting for its turn for over
decades. Yes, we are talking about one of Hindi cinema's most iconic
movies, Mr India (1987), directed by Shekhar Kapur. Be it Anil
Kapoor's impressive invisible act, Sridevi sizzling to Kate Nahi Kat Te
number or Mogambo's (Amrish Puri) menacing moves - the film has not faded
from public memory in all these years.
A few weeks ago, while talking to us about the film completing 30 years, producer Boney Kapoor had said, “People thought I was crazy to make a film like Mr India.“ He added, “Would I like to make Mr India 2? Yes, I would love to. I am itching to make a few more films like that.“
And now Sridevi, who is keenly awaiting her next release, Mom, confirms this. During a chat with BT, when we asked her about Mr India 2 and the possibility of Anil Kapoor and her coming together for it, the actress said, “It is too early to talk about it, but Mr India 2 is definitely on, because wherever we go, we are always asked about it, and it's very rare to see such eagerness for a sequel. Mr India 2 will happen... I want Boneyji to make it. And I think he will do it. The story isn't finalised yet, so it hasn't reached a stage where we can say anything more about it.“
Well, what do we say...audience khush hua!
A few weeks ago, while talking to us about the film completing 30 years, producer Boney Kapoor had said, “People thought I was crazy to make a film like Mr India.“ He added, “Would I like to make Mr India 2? Yes, I would love to. I am itching to make a few more films like that.“
And now Sridevi, who is keenly awaiting her next release, Mom, confirms this. During a chat with BT, when we asked her about Mr India 2 and the possibility of Anil Kapoor and her coming together for it, the actress said, “It is too early to talk about it, but Mr India 2 is definitely on, because wherever we go, we are always asked about it, and it's very rare to see such eagerness for a sequel. Mr India 2 will happen... I want Boneyji to make it. And I think he will do it. The story isn't finalised yet, so it hasn't reached a stage where we can say anything more about it.“
Well, what do we say...audience khush hua!
Things have to be done according to my convenience-Sridevi
8:01 AM
Sridevi opens up about playing a mother — in real and reel life, and why she is drawn to ‘mom’ characters now
Nayandeep Rakshit (DNA; June 22, 2017)
She’s a woman of few words. But, she doesn’t need them. She walks into a room and owns it. Sridevi has a royal aura about her. The actress carries herself with dignity and style. She has been missing from the big screen for the last five years — since English Vinglish. Now, she returns with Mom. Ask her about the long gap, and she jokes about her long maternity break, “Pehle 15 saal ka gap tha. Abhi paach saal ka. So I’m improving.” And, we start laughing.
Over the next 30 minutes, Sridevi opens up about playing a mother — in real and reel life, and why she is drawn to ‘mom’ characters now. Read on for excerpts...
Five years from English Vinglish to Mom. Didn’t you get any interesting offers in the interim?
It’s not about the offers. I don’t want to do a film just for the sake of doing it. My first priority is always my children. So, when I did English Vinglish, the schedule was according to my convenience. R Balki (producer of English Vinglish) is a dear friend, so he worked out the schedule in a way that my children could be with me. Bachchon ki holidays chal rahi thi, so we shot in those two months. After that, some offers came but I didn’t end up taking them because of several reasons like being on outdoors and being away from the kids, and sometimes, you are just not happy with the script. I am not keen on taking up these films. It’s not necessary that I have to keep myself busy. I should love the subject, it should touch my heart, I should feel for my character and the other characters around me — then I will do it for sure. All of this matters. But the main thing is it has to be done according to my convenience.
Several actresses your age have made comebacks. But your choices are dramatically different. Comment.
I always go with my instincts. More than anything, the character has to suit me. I can’t do stuff that I did 10 or 20 years ago. I won’t be comfortable doing it anymore. I want my children to feel proud of what I’m doing. So, yes, obviously, I will pick films that have great stories and which don’t require me to be who I was years ago. It won’t seem or look logical anymore.
A lot has changed since you made a comeback. Twenty years ago, there would be no contracts, people did films on face value and for relationships...
(Cuts in) Yes, that used to happen so much. Koi producer problem mein hai toh we used to do his film to help him out. I, too, have done so many films like that. There would be no bound scripts, contracts toh chhod hi do.
But now, it’s become more professional and structured...
I love that. It’s become more professional, there’s a time frame now. The environment is good. Plus, every department is handled by different people. It’s systematic, so that’s really good.
Why did you take up Mom?
Has to be the plot. And the relationship between the mother and daughter, it touched me. And, like I said, I always go by my instincts. I thought Mom would be the right film for me, right now.
In your previous interview with After Hrs, you said you love being called a mom. Does that affect your choices in films?
Yes, absolutely. Because I am a mother, I know exactly what the character is going through. I can relate to that. I could feel for the character in Mom. She is a strong mother, devoted to her children and she goes to any extent for her children’s sake. These are the qualities you like and you would love to show on screen as well.
It is a revenge drama? Avenging her daughter..
(Interrupts) It’s not revenge. I would call it giving punishment.
What is it that scares you as a mother?
There are many things that scare me. There’s an insecurity about my children, when they go out, till they are back I am worried. I call them several times to just find out ki kya ho raha, gaadi kahi ruk gayi hai ya nahi. These are all the basic things that any other mother keeps worrying about when it comes to her children.
Are you protective or possessive as a mother?
No, I am not at all possessive. But, I am extremely protective.
Do you have a curfew time for your daughters?
Yes, rules are same for both Jhanvi and Khushi. They know they have a curfew time and they have to be back home. Else, I will keep calling and inquiring.
How do they react to the calls?
They react by bargaining. They will be like, ‘Mama, half-an-hour more? Mama, 20 minutes more, please?' But they are very obedient children. Touchwood. Both Jhanvi and Khushi are very understanding, and they know their limits really well. So they don’t trouble me much (smiles).
How different are you as a mother from what your mom was to you?
If I was even close to what my mother was to me, they will pack my bags and tell me, ‘You go and live in Chennai’. (Laughs) I cannot expect my children to be how I was with my mother. Times have changed and I have changed with it. Both Jhanvi and Khushi understand where I’m coming from. I am also not a hi-tech modern mom — for whom everything is fine and cool.
What are the do's and dont's for your daughters?
Of course, there are lots of them. And they know where to draw a line. Sometimes, they don’t even come and ask. I only tell them sometimes, ‘There’s a get together’. They will be like, ‘No Mama, it’s too late. I don’t think I will be comfortable.’ Both of them are extremely health conscious and I don’t have to control them. It’s not like everything’s going haywire, it has never reached that level. Sometimes, one late night and the next day they start cribbing saying ‘we can’t handle it’. So it’s good that they know the value of being healthy so I don’t have to push them too much.
Do you put special emphasis on what your daughters eat at home? Do you cook for them?
I don’t cook. I go to the kitchen, I supervise and plan menus for my kids. But cooking toh bohut dur ki baat hai. Janvi is very fond of cooking. She is fond of baking cakes, custards, cookies and all. That I enjoy eating! (Laughs) Instead of me cooking and giving them, they do it for me and I eat. (Smiles)
In terms of personality, who is closer to you — Jhanvi or Khushi?
Jhanvi is more like me. She’s very sensitive, naive, obedient... I see so much of myself in her. Khushi is independent, strong and has her own mind.
Jhanvi is entering Bollywood now. Was it a conscious decision to not produce her first film?
Aisa kuch nahi hai.
Recently, Saif said that although Sara is joining films, he is not happy that she chose to act as it is an insecure profession. Do you agree?
I absolutely agree with what Saif said. In the beginning, I didn’t want Jhanvi to become an actress. As a parent, one is naturally protective of their children and you are literally exposing them to the world. Itne saal aapne usko protect kiya and you want them to just happily settle. Bas stress-free ho jao but that doesn’t happen. Today, children too have their own minds and beginning mein, I ignored it and tried to caution her saying that this is a tough job. There’s so much sacrifice, so much to give — no pain, no gain. But it seems she’s ready for it. As parents, we will support her.
Did she dance to your songs while growing up?
No, never. Jhanvi has not seen my films. I have never made my kids sit and watch my movies. I think they haven’t seen most of them, except for Mr India and a few others. The first time Jhanvi confessed that she wanted to become an actress was when someone asked her what she wanted to do in life. She said, ‘I will become a doctor. But not in real life. In a movie, I will play a doctor.’ It was so funny and I was like, ‘Hello, what are you saying?’ (Laughs) Maybe, at the back of her mind, she had decided, but she was too shy to express it to us. Slowly, slowly bomb phoda!
How did you react to it?
I didn’t get angry. (Laughs) But I went up to Boneyji and said this is what she wants. So dono sar pe haath rakh ke baith gaye ki yeh kya ho gaya. (Laughs) Slowly, we psyched ourselves and came to terms with it.
Jhanvi didn’t know Hindi. Has she learnt it now?
Yes, a lot of it now. She can speak Urdu also very well. But of course, she speaks Hindi also very well now.
You are like a friend to your daughters. Do they talk about their personal lives and boyfriends to you as well?
Yes, we do that. Both the kids share everything with me. Even I do the same thing. We are more or less like friends only. So, whatever is going on in their lives, I am one of the first to know about it.
Your daughters will be compared to you. Comment.
We can’t run away from that. She has to face the pressure. When she has decided to enter Bollywood, she has to go through all this. She’s prepared for all that, and I am also preparing myself for it. Sometimes, it scares me. So many thoughts come and you feel why is she doing this? But then, if you feel that is her aim and happiness, as a mother, I will support her like my mom supported me. We weren’t from a film background but it happened and she stood by me, fought for me and made sure I am happy. That’s how I would also like to be with Jhanvi.
Did tears come naturally to you during Mom? Did you think about Janvi and Khushi while shooting those scenes?
No, I never thought about Jhanvi and Khushi at all. Bhagwan kare ki aisa never happens with anybody. The characters in Mom go through hell and I don’t wish that for anyone. I was so involved and in character that I was thinking what that mother would have gone through. Many times, I had tears naturally. I don’t remember using glycerine.
I’d always want to be this Sridevi, Sridevi, the actor-Sridevi
7:56 AM
The ‘Hawa Hawai’ girl on her next, daughters Jhanvi and Khushi’s starry aspirations and her 22-year-old romance
Roshmila Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; June 22, 2017)
It’s hard to imagine Sridevi away from the arclights. Three hundred films in a career spanning four decades, she has seamlessly made the transition from glitzy mainstream Bollywood to more off-beat films rooted in reality, like English Vinglish and the upcoming Mom. The once larger-than-life diva is happy being a home-maker today and casual in a sweatsuit, this bespectacled Sridevi is a far cry from the tooty-fruity Seema of Mr India. “Can you imagine me doing a 'Hawa Hawai' now?” she lets out a faint laugh, adding that she’s careful about choosing characters that suit her age and comfort level. “The performance should come naturally. I don’t want to do something that is not me. I know age is just a number and as an actor one should be ready to experiment, but being a mother, I want my daughters (Jhanvi and Khushi) to appreciate me on screen.”
So, which of her films are her daughters’ favourite? She springs another surprise by admitting that she has never shown them any of her films. “It’s only now that Jhanvi, urged by outsiders, has started seeing some, but Khushi so far has seen only Mr India, that too because it’s her father’s (Boney Kapoor) film. Whenever any of my films come on, I always switch off the TV, not because I’m embarrassed or ashamed but because I feel odd. That makes Boneyji angry because he loves watching all my films. He will order me out of the room and watch it alone,” she laughs.
It’s cute to see her blush when she talks about her producer-husband, who has always been extremely protective of her. Even now, he is just across the landing, a solid, comforting presence, as his actress-wife fields queries in the living room. “I am lucky I have him. After my parents passed away, Boneyji has been my father, mother and husband. We’ve been married for 22 years but even today, people tell me his eyes light up when he talks about me. I take credit for that, I’ve worked really hard,” she smiles.
She can’t pinpoint the little things they are constantly doing for each other, reasoning that a husband and wife will always love, respect and stand up for each other. For her romance is dressing up to go out, gazing into the mirror and telling herself that her husband will like the way she is looking. “And the next morning he’s sending me pictures from the event, telling me, ‘Dekho, how beautiful you are looking.’ When I ask him where he got the pictures from, he says mysteriously that he has his sources. It’s so cute to see him show off,” she giggles, imitating Boney.
She agrees that even her kids are charmed to see them joke with and bully each other. “Yes, I bully him and so does he, but all in jest,” she asserts. “Jhanvi says she doesn’t find such happiness in her friends’ homes and wants a man just like her dad.”
While Sridevi would be happy to get her daughter married, she’s had to reluctantly surrender to her starry ambitions. She remembers how growing up, Jhanvi wanted to be a doctor, a teacher and wasn’t prepared when told she now wanted to follow in her mamma’s footsteps. “While we may slog, we’re protective of our children and don’t want to expose them to stress and toil. But a friend’s daughter, who was pushed into marriage early, still complains, even after six years of a happy marriage. I didn’t want Jhanvi to blame me so I gave my consent even though I wish she’d stayed away from this industry, because I didn’t want my child to go through all the pain, sacrifices and heartache,” she sighs, going on to say that recently her daughter was really low after it was reported that she’d been chasing an actor at a party. “'But mummy, I was with Gauri aunty' (Gauri Shinde, director of English Vinglish) Jhanvi protested and I told her, ‘Welcome to my world, if you want to be a part of it, you have to be prepared for all this,’” the world-weary actor narrates, adding with a sigh that she is now waiting for Khushi to give her a shock one day soon. “She has already started modelling and it will end up with her saying, ‘Mujhe bhi acting karni hai'.”
In this era of remakes, is there any film of hers she’d like Jhanvi to take forward. “Abhi tak to aage bhi nahin badi hai woh, let’s see how she does in her first film,” Sridevi shoots back. Is her daughter being launched by Karan Johar in the Student of the Year sequel opposite Tiger Shroff as reported? “Wait for the announcement, it’ll come soon enough and aapko khud pata chal jayega,” she sounds like the perfect producer’s wife.
Which brings us to the subject of their home production, Mom, a thriller revolving around a frantic mother, whose daughter is in trouble. Sridevi confides that like the comedy-drama, English Vinglish, which fell into her lap and wooed her with the relatable Shashi, Mom too just came her way two years after her comeback film. “Boneyji came to me with just one line saying if I liked the idea, they’d develop it. It took them a year to lock the script, another year to finalise the cast. I never thought I’d come back to the studio again, I was happy in my own world with my husband and children,” says the woman for whom the word ‘mom’ epitomises devotion, giving and selflessness and brings back memories of her own mother who was very religious and taught her to respect elders and always be punctual and professional, qualities she wants to pass on to her children. “Whatever I am today is because of my mom,” she says emotionally.
Given a chance to relive her life, would she choose another profession? “My family wasn’t in films and destiny brought me into this film industry at the age of four, and I’d always want to be this Sridevi, Sridevi, the actor,” she signs off with another smile.
It’s hard to imagine Sridevi away from the arclights. Three hundred films in a career spanning four decades, she has seamlessly made the transition from glitzy mainstream Bollywood to more off-beat films rooted in reality, like English Vinglish and the upcoming Mom. The once larger-than-life diva is happy being a home-maker today and casual in a sweatsuit, this bespectacled Sridevi is a far cry from the tooty-fruity Seema of Mr India. “Can you imagine me doing a 'Hawa Hawai' now?” she lets out a faint laugh, adding that she’s careful about choosing characters that suit her age and comfort level. “The performance should come naturally. I don’t want to do something that is not me. I know age is just a number and as an actor one should be ready to experiment, but being a mother, I want my daughters (Jhanvi and Khushi) to appreciate me on screen.”
So, which of her films are her daughters’ favourite? She springs another surprise by admitting that she has never shown them any of her films. “It’s only now that Jhanvi, urged by outsiders, has started seeing some, but Khushi so far has seen only Mr India, that too because it’s her father’s (Boney Kapoor) film. Whenever any of my films come on, I always switch off the TV, not because I’m embarrassed or ashamed but because I feel odd. That makes Boneyji angry because he loves watching all my films. He will order me out of the room and watch it alone,” she laughs.
It’s cute to see her blush when she talks about her producer-husband, who has always been extremely protective of her. Even now, he is just across the landing, a solid, comforting presence, as his actress-wife fields queries in the living room. “I am lucky I have him. After my parents passed away, Boneyji has been my father, mother and husband. We’ve been married for 22 years but even today, people tell me his eyes light up when he talks about me. I take credit for that, I’ve worked really hard,” she smiles.
She can’t pinpoint the little things they are constantly doing for each other, reasoning that a husband and wife will always love, respect and stand up for each other. For her romance is dressing up to go out, gazing into the mirror and telling herself that her husband will like the way she is looking. “And the next morning he’s sending me pictures from the event, telling me, ‘Dekho, how beautiful you are looking.’ When I ask him where he got the pictures from, he says mysteriously that he has his sources. It’s so cute to see him show off,” she giggles, imitating Boney.
She agrees that even her kids are charmed to see them joke with and bully each other. “Yes, I bully him and so does he, but all in jest,” she asserts. “Jhanvi says she doesn’t find such happiness in her friends’ homes and wants a man just like her dad.”
While Sridevi would be happy to get her daughter married, she’s had to reluctantly surrender to her starry ambitions. She remembers how growing up, Jhanvi wanted to be a doctor, a teacher and wasn’t prepared when told she now wanted to follow in her mamma’s footsteps. “While we may slog, we’re protective of our children and don’t want to expose them to stress and toil. But a friend’s daughter, who was pushed into marriage early, still complains, even after six years of a happy marriage. I didn’t want Jhanvi to blame me so I gave my consent even though I wish she’d stayed away from this industry, because I didn’t want my child to go through all the pain, sacrifices and heartache,” she sighs, going on to say that recently her daughter was really low after it was reported that she’d been chasing an actor at a party. “'But mummy, I was with Gauri aunty' (Gauri Shinde, director of English Vinglish) Jhanvi protested and I told her, ‘Welcome to my world, if you want to be a part of it, you have to be prepared for all this,’” the world-weary actor narrates, adding with a sigh that she is now waiting for Khushi to give her a shock one day soon. “She has already started modelling and it will end up with her saying, ‘Mujhe bhi acting karni hai'.”
In this era of remakes, is there any film of hers she’d like Jhanvi to take forward. “Abhi tak to aage bhi nahin badi hai woh, let’s see how she does in her first film,” Sridevi shoots back. Is her daughter being launched by Karan Johar in the Student of the Year sequel opposite Tiger Shroff as reported? “Wait for the announcement, it’ll come soon enough and aapko khud pata chal jayega,” she sounds like the perfect producer’s wife.
Which brings us to the subject of their home production, Mom, a thriller revolving around a frantic mother, whose daughter is in trouble. Sridevi confides that like the comedy-drama, English Vinglish, which fell into her lap and wooed her with the relatable Shashi, Mom too just came her way two years after her comeback film. “Boneyji came to me with just one line saying if I liked the idea, they’d develop it. It took them a year to lock the script, another year to finalise the cast. I never thought I’d come back to the studio again, I was happy in my own world with my husband and children,” says the woman for whom the word ‘mom’ epitomises devotion, giving and selflessness and brings back memories of her own mother who was very religious and taught her to respect elders and always be punctual and professional, qualities she wants to pass on to her children. “Whatever I am today is because of my mom,” she says emotionally.
Given a chance to relive her life, would she choose another profession? “My family wasn’t in films and destiny brought me into this film industry at the age of four, and I’d always want to be this Sridevi, Sridevi, the actor,” she signs off with another smile.
Sridevi would be happier to see Jhanvi Kapoor married than act in Bollywood
7:56 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; June 20, 2017)
It's a coincidence that Sridevi's 300th film is called Mom, especially when her first critics were her daughters, Jhanvi and Khushi, who fell short of words after watching the first cut. When mid-day met the otherwise elusive Sridevi for a chat, she opened up about her relationship with her daughters. "We are like friends. We spend a lot of time together. Our routine is always centered around each other. I have been coming home late these days because I'm busy dubbing and promoting the film. But no matter how late I get, Khushi, always welcomes me with a smile. She comes to my room as soon as I get back and we snuggle up in a quilt to watch a film together."
Though not much is known about her and Boney Kapoor's daughters, the yesteryear diva describes the girls as feisty. "For me, they will always be kids. But they seem to have taken less after me and more after my bold screen image. Last year, when Khushi wrote a post about body shaming on Instagram, I was pleasantly surprised to see my kid turn into a strong, opinionated and sharp young woman," says Sridevi.
Preferring not to discuss Jhanvi Kapoor's Bollywood debut, Student Of The Year 2 (SOTY 2), the 53-year-old shares how her intentions were misunderstood when her daughters accompanied her to film events. "Earlier, I would take them to social gatherings and premieres that I attended. But they (people) thought I was promoting Jhanvi. Walking with my girls made me feel like a proud mother. But to the world, it became a reason to misunderstand me," she says, adding that she discouraged overexposure when SOTY 2 came Jhanvi's way.
"She wanted to do the film and initially, I wasn't in favour. I don't think it's a bad industry. I am a creation of this world. But, as a parent, it would give me greater joy to see her married. But her happiness matters more, and if she does well as an actress, I will be a proud mother," says the actress.
Jhanvi consults her parents for career-related matters, says Sridevi. "She is a wise girl, but she insists on our help for everything. Boneyji and I are aware of every detail of her career."
Khushi and Jhanvi Kapoor
Jhanvi is closer to me, Khushi is closer to Boney Kapoor-Sridevi
8:24 AM
Sridevi shares her parenting experiences, says her elder child is obedient like her, while the younger one is more independent...
Upala KBR (DNA; May 14, 2017)
I have known (if you can call it that) the reclusive Sridevi for decades. In all those years, the conversations have been very few. But it’s very clear. She is committed to whatever she does, a 100 per cent, from acting to motherhood. She has done some wonderful roles, but the one she loves most of being a mom — which is also the title of her next film produced by her husband Boney Kapoor.
On Mother’s Day, the actress talks about motherhood, her daughters Jhanvi (who is ready to be launched as an actress, soon) and Khushi and shares some memories with her own mother... read on.
What was your relationship with your mom and how different is it with your daughters?
My mom used to say that I was a shy and obedient child. She would decide for me — be it my clothes and jewellery for any occasion or anything else — and I would follow her blindly as I believed and trusted her choices. I knew she would choose what suited me best. My children, too, trust my choice. Times have changed and they have their own mindsets, but they definitely take my opinion on everything. Being a part of current generation, they have always something good and interesting to suggest. And I love to follow them.
Are your children more independent?
Yes, they are very independent, but they obviously need me around time to time. More than Khushi, Jhanvi needs me around.
Are you more of a friend to them or is Boney? Whom do they confide in?
They are friendly with both of us. Khushi is closer to Boneyji and Jhanvi is closer to me. Jhanvi, I feel is more like me — absolutely obedient. I remember... once my mom narrated an incident about me to her friends. She had asked me to sit on the compound wall of our building as she was talking to the neighbours. Suddenly, she realised she had left something in the kitchen, so she told me, ‘Sit here. I will just come.’ She went and got busy with other things and after two hours, she remembered that she left her daughter sitting on the wall. She came running out to meet me and found me sitting quietly in the same position she had left me! My mother asked me, ‘Why didn’t you call out to me?’ I said, ‘But you told me to sit here…’ She told everybody this story about what an obedient child I was. At the same time, Khushi is also obedient, but will not sit on the wall for two hours, but I think Jaanu will... Both my children are extremely attached to us. Jhanvi seeks more attention from me while Khushi can manage things on her own. Though Janvi’s grown up now, sometimes I still have to feed her. She won’t eat properly at certain times so I have to make sure that she eats properly. Sometimes she tells me to put her to sleep so all these nakhras she does. Khushi has always been a very independent person right since childhood.
Between you and your husband who is stricter?
We balance it out. Sometimes I am strict and he says, okay, fine, you can’t just be so strict or the other way around. But the bottom line is our children know their limits.
Are you net savvy or did your daughters help you to come on Twitter?
My Twitter account got activated during English Vinglish for promotional reasons as the marketing team thought it would be good to go digital. I am on Twitter and Instagram, but not on Facebook. Though my daughters are not on Twitter, they are only on Instagram. They have a private account. There are too many fake accounts of them going around on Insta and some people think that it’s their account when it’s not. They put up pictures on these fake accounts and make it look like as if Jhanvi and Khushi are putting it out when they are not. And of course, they both help me with my digital activities that is Insta and Twitter account.
Being public figures, you and Boney are used to handling the media spotlight on you. How do your daughters handle it and how do you guide them?
Earlier, I used to get a bit rattled and worried because I didn’t want them to get into the spotlight. But in today’s time you can’t help this. You are clicked at every event and everywhere. Now, I believe that we have learnt to live with it and they have learnt to cope with it.
Between Boney and you, who is ultra protective about your children?
We both are equally protective and keep track of all the activities. All four of you are often seen doing many things together as a close-knit family, though today’s children prefer spending time with their friends. Our children are happy being with us and doing things with us. But at the same time, we give them enough space to spend time with their friends whenever they want to. They are happy to come with us and love doing things together —whether it is shopping or watching movies or just sitting at the dining table and chatting.
Both your daughters are beautiful, well-brought up kids and very dignified like you. What advice have you given them to be what they are?
Thank you for saying that. I think children learn through their parents. They have grown up with the same values we have. And we made sure that they value good things and respect everybody, especially elders.
Did you want Jhanvi to do something else and not become an actress or are you happy with whatever careers they want for themselves?
I always believe in destiny. She wanted to have a career in acting and we are supportive. And I will be as supportive as my mother was to me when I started my career. Obviously in her happiness is our happiness and we are happy to support her in all her endeavours.
How involved are your daughters in your films?
Very involved. Right from reading the scripts and discussing those with me. They are always very anxious to see the rushes. I can see the glow in their eyes whenever they see me on the screen. I am happy that they enjoy being part of the whole process.
Do they give advice on your clothes and styling?
Yes, and that’s great fun! We discuss what we are wearing and what we need to wear for any occasion, but kabhi kabhi Boneyji bhi beech mein aa jaate hai aur bolte hai aap logo ne apna decide karr liya, but what about me? Then Jhanvi and Khushi try to convince him and they enjoy helping him with the new and interesting styles.
Any message for your daughters today?
Well, be happy and stay happy always. And above all keep us happy.
Sridevi, Rishi Kapoor remember their Chandni co-star, Vinod Khanna
7:09 AM
Upala KBR (DNA; April 28, 2017)
For Rishi Kapoor, Sridevi and the late Vinod Khanna, Chandni was a landmark film with Yash Chopra. One that had unforgettable music, some great scenes between the trio.
Of course, in the wake of his recent passing, condolences have been pouring in and the three have been co-stars separately in films other than that. Here, Sridevi and Rishi remember Vinod with much fondness...
SRIDEVI
“We have worked together in three films including Chandni (1989) and Pathar Ke Insaan (1990) and Farishtay (1991). It was a great shock to hear about him passing away... I feel very sad... I heard from Boneyji (Kapoor) about it. I remember Vinod as being a very calm and dignified actor. He always talked softly, was extremely humble and down-to-earth and a wonderful co-star. My heart goes out to his family. He was a great guy. We first worked together in Chandni. Before that, he was a top star and this larger-than-life personality for me. I would watch all his films and I was very excited and happy when I heard he was working in Chandni and that I would get to work with him. I couldn’t believe it! We did a mahurat of Chandni and I imagined him as a regular famous person would be. We wished each other and then I started observing him. Vinodji was so simple and quiet. It was really amazing as he turned out to be a total contrast from what I had envisioned him to be. He was dignified, non-starry and simple. I have always had great respect for him.”
RISHI KAPOOR
“It was heart-breaking for me to hear the news. I have known him even before he became an actor. Vinod was so handsome, a good-looking hunk and a lady-killer. But more than that, he was a good chap. The first time we shot together was for Amar Akbar Anthony. After that we did several films together, including Chandni. One thing, I must tell you — about three weeks ago, when I went to meet Vinod at the hospital, we couldn’t meet him, but his wife Kavita was very kind. She came out to meet us and spoke about how he was progressing. We were chatting with Kavita, when she told us that at that very point, Vinod was reading my book Khullam Khulla and he was very happy reading it.”
I may stay away for five years-Sridevi
7:48 AM
What Sridevi will do, if she doesn’t get ‘inspiring’ offers
Subhash K Jha (DNA; September 30, 2015)
Sridevi has been one to buck trends. From everything from a Sadma to a Khuda Gawah to a Lamhe and more lately, English Vinglish. While she was born and brought up in Chennai and even started her film career there, she has only recently done a Tamil film called Puli, which will be dubbed in Hindi. In a candid chat, the actress talks about her plans ahead, how she rues not being able to converse with her daughters in Tamil and more.
Why Puli?
There were other offers, but I decided to do Puli because it seemed like the right project and was completely different from English Vinglish. At this stage of my life I don’t need to go out and work unless it’s something that I am enthusiastic about.
So what grabbed your attention in Puli?
It was the whole ambience of fantasy-adventure. I haven’t done one of those for a very long time.
You had done Chandramukhi with Salman Khan?
Chandramukhi was partly a fantasy-adventure. But not entirely. This one takes us fully into the genre. I wanted to do something like this. I’ve made my choice.
Were there any problems doing a Tamil film after 29 years?
Why should it be a problem? I’ve done numerous films in Tamil in the past. I’ve spent a major part of my life in Chennai. I was born and brought up there. Even now I often go to Chennai. I have relatives and friends there.
Do you get to speak Tamil at home in Mumbai?
No, I don’t. And that’s something I miss. Unfortunately, my daughters don’t speak Tamil. But I’ve my Tamilian staff whom I talk to, in the language. Though my mother-tongue is Telugu, I’ve spent most of my life in Chennai and Mumbai.
Why don’t we get to see more of you on screen?
At this stage of my life, I don’t need to go out and work unless I am excited about what’s offered to me. To leave my home and children and go out and work, spending the entire day on a set, should be worth my while. Otherwise what is the need? Why should I do it?
What after Puli?
It all depends on the offers I get. If I like something, I may do a film immediately. If nothing inspires me, I may stay away for five years.
Any dream role left for you?
I can’t think of any role that I dream about now. But yes, my character in English Vinglish was something I could have never imagined playing. It just fell into my lap.
But surely there is somebody you’d like to play?
I am sure there are many beautiful characters waiting for me to be played. What I want to play now is any role that I haven’t done before.
I don’t know why I am so fond of Shruti Haasan-Sridevi
7:55 AM
Sridevi reveals her fondness for Kamal Haasan’s daughter, debunks rumours about her daughters’ rumoured Bolly debut and more in a candid chat
Sonali Joshi Pitale (MID-DAY; September 23, 2015)
It is after almost two decades that Sridevi is making her comeback to Tamil cinema with Puli — well, technically, since her comeback Bollywood film, English Vinglish ( 2012) had also been released in the language. The actress, who plays an evil queen in the fantasy thriller, reveals that she didn’t think twice before giving her nod to the project.
“I instantly said yes because I have not done a costume fantasy film earlier. I felt it is a different genre for me,” says Sridevi, who got the opportunity to perform stunts in the film with the assistance of action directors from Russia. “We had to rehearse for the action scenes over five days before doing it in front of the camera. But, due to heavy rains in Chennai, the plan went haywire. The crew had to redo the set and look after technical issues. So, we had to do the stunts without any practice,” smiles the 51-year-old actress.
Of late, South filmmakers have been creating a market for their movies in Bollywood, SS Rajamouli’s Baahubali being the latest. Following this trend, Puli also starring Tamil superstar Vijay, Shruti Haasan and Hansika Motwani, will be dubbed and released in Hindi. Sridevi, however, wants to avoid any comparisons with the Rs 250-crore epic thriller. “It is not fair to compare Puli with Baahubali because it a commercial fantasy film,” she retorts.
While Vijay is a big name down South, Sridevi states that she enjoyed working with Shruti and Hansika. “All three of them are as good as experienced actors, focussed and professional. I share a special bond with Shruti. I don’t know why I am so fond of her. She is talented and has good physical features. She is a really sweet girl and it was great working with her,” she says. Sridevi worked with Shruti’s father and cinema legend Kamal Haasan in a bunch of South Indian films and a couple of Hindi movies, including the much- appreciated Sadma (1983).
How involved was she in the process of fleshing out her role and developing her look in Puli? “The creative decisions are taken by the director. I have only given inputs and suggestions regarding my look. It turned out to be an interesting character and we approached Manish (Malhotra) because I thought he will do justice to it (the look),” she states, adding that advanced cinematic technology has made life easy now. She says: “Earlier, there were no monitors and no vanity vans. Now it is much more organised.”
As a parting shot, she puts to rest speculations about her daughters Jhanvi and Khushi venturing into Bollywood sooner rather than later. “My younger daughter is just 15. She has to finish her education and cannot act now. The older one has just completed her graduation and will be pursuing further studies abroad. I don’t believe in planning. Let her (Jhanvi) concentrate on studies now and decide about her career later,” she signs off.
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