aveena Tandon who recently completed her 25 years in Bollywood has come a long way. From winning the National Award to popular appeal, she has seen it all. When you meet her, the first thing which strikes you is her carefree attitude. It seems as if she hasn’t aged since her debut in Patthar Ke Phool (1991) and, in fact, looks ravishing than ever.
“Completing 25 years in Bollywood is a matter of satisfaction for me. I have led a good life and I am thankful to God for that,” says Raveena at an event where she unveiled the latest issue of a Hindi woman’s magazine, which celebrated its 25th anniversary with the actress.
At present, the “Mast Mast” girl is busy shooting for her upcoming film Matr in Gurgaon. The film revolves around a dedicated mother who brings up her 11 children and ensures that all become college graduates.
Edited excerpts from an interview:
On her role in “Matr”
I play a working mother in the film. It is a very challenging role and deals with violence against women. I can say that after watching the film, women will feel a certain sense of contentment and empowerment. It will give a strong message that it’s time we don’t just sit back any more, letting this happen to our daughters. It is time to step up, as one day it could happen to you.
As a mother, how do see the impact of films on children?
The impact of movies on children can be profound, if they are not guided and explained properly the difference between reel and real life by adults.
Can we say “Matr” and “Shab” are your comeback films?
I have no comeback film and I am not in the rat race any more. I’ve been there, achieved awards and rewards and seen commercial and critical acclaim. So now, I work for the joy of it or if something challenging comes along. Even if it is a song-and-a-half like in Bombay Velvet or a part in Shab. They were different characters that I have never done before. My role in Shab is that of a bold woman whereas, Matr is a film which has much more for me to do, dealing with atrocities on women.
How do you think Hindi films have changed over the last 25 years?
Technically, we have improved a lot. People have even started making films on bold subjects. In our times, there used to be a villain, a hero and heroine. These days, lead artists take up negative roles and the audience is willing to accept them. No leading actress would have done what Priyanka Chopra did inMary Kom, where she becomes a boxer. Actors, makers and the audience have changed for good. They are thinking people now.
How do you see the expression of female desire on screen?
Bollywood has to learn how to survive in the competition with Hollywood. Richa Chadha’s portrayal of a young girl embracing her sexuality was noteworthy in Masaan. The critical appreciation that came her way was proof of her terrific performance.
What are your plans?
I have no plans as I am not planning a career. I’m working for fun because that’s what I’ve done since I was 16. This is what I think, I am best at. Once I have more time in my hand and my kids grow up, I will try my hand in production and may be direction.