Why has it taken you so long to return to the movies?
Because of my kids. I was having fun with them..like every woman, I've wanted to see them grow up. So what attracted you to restart with Aa Nachle?
I've worked with Yashji, I'm aware how his banner works— they finish a project within the set deadline. Plus, the film will be shot entirely in Mumbai, which means I don't have to travel all over the place. I liked the script—it's perfect for my comeback. And I've seen Anil Mehta's work as a cinematographer (Lagaan, Veer Zaara, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna). So, here I am. There were rumours that you would return in a film opposite Amitabh Bachchan, directed by Yash Chopra.
Aha! They were just that— rumours. You sound as if you've missed out on working with Mr Bachchan.
I know, I know. Honestly, there's a blank space within me as an actress for missing out on such an opportunity. But I'm an optimistic sort. Maybe I could work with him in the future. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Does this mean you plan to sign more films?
Right now, it's just this film. My comeback film. (Laughs) And next?
I don't know. It's not that I'm going to do four-five films every year like before. My prime concerns are, of course, my kids. Once they start going to school, I will have to be around them. Then I'll make another comeback. (Laughs) Did you discuss the script with your husband?
Of course! We're family, we decide everything mutually. It's always a joint decision. It's never one-sided. Yashji sent me the script and I was sure that this is the film I want to make my comeback with. See, comeback again (giggles)! Will your husband be in Mumbai?
No. He has gone back. He has a busy schedule, it requires him to look into various projects. Are you anxious about the first day's shoot?
Yes, I have butterflies in my stomach. I guess it will be fun after five years to face the lights. The shoot is slated for mid-January. Do you keep track of the movies being made in India?
Not really. I've small kids remember? I don't even get time for myself. But yes, I usually come to know about what's happening in Mumbai through Rikkuji (Rakeshnath, her secretary). I recently saw Dhoom II which has so much style. Everyone in the film is awesome. Don't you think movie-making here has changed?
I agree. I heard people here have become very professional and there is a new breed of talented directors. Multiplexes have changed the scenario. Earlier, there was chalta hai attitude. But not anymore. The economics have changed, surely for the better. Which actor/actress of your time should make a comeback and why?
I've no clue about what the others are doing or who should make a comeback to the film industry. I guess all of them are still working. A while ago, Rajkumar Santoshi had announced Mother India with you. What happened?
He had announced it. So, you should ask him for the details. I've no idea. You recently performed at an award function, was that your testing ground for the comeback?
It was just a coincidence. I was in town and they persuaded me to perform.. after lots of no-no and yes-yes, I agreed. And than you were flooded with compliments.
It was wow! You know one never gets fed up of compliments. They are always welcome. Compliments make one feel good. You are being closely watched now. How will you deal with this?
If you mean dealing with the media, I've faced it all before. It's part of an actor's life. I'll handle it. Your take on M. F. Hussain finding a new muse in Amrita Rao.
I saw the portrait he has done of Amrita. It's really good. As an artist, Husainsaab needs to express himself and he's free to do so. One needs to move on. It's like me working with various directors and actors. Did you call him after seeing the portrait?
I don't know where he is right now. But we do speak when we can. Any last words?
Umm... let me see... okay, let's hope the audience accepts me... the way they did before... touch wood, touch everything.
vajir.singh@hindustan times.com
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