Madhoo Shah, renowned for her roles in iconic ’90s films like Roja and Diljale, takes us on a journey back to the challenging yet rewarding era of Indian cinema. In a recent interview, she candidly shares her experiences, shedding light on the hardships faced by actresses during that time.
Making her Bollywood debut in 1991 with Phool Aur Kaante alongside Ajay Devgn, Madhoo quickly rose to fame, particularly in the South Indian film industry. Despite finding success, she recalls a lack of basic facilities on film sets, a stark contrast to the luxurious vanity van culture we see today.
Madhoo On The Challenges
Madhoo vividly remembers one particularly arduous experience while filming a Tamil movie. Amidst the scenic beauty of places like the Red Caves in Kolachi, she had to endure changing costumes in the open and dancing under the scorching sun. The discomfort was compounded by the constant fear of being watched, making it one of the most challenging periods of her career.
Another memorable instance was during the shooting of Mani Ratnam’s Iruvar, where Madhoo had to make do with napping on rocks during breaks due to the lack of proper resting areas. Recalling those days, she shares a poignant moment when she overheard someone questioning the value of her hard-earned money, simply because she had to sleep on rocks. These struggles were a harsh reality for many actors at the time, especially for women like Madhoo.
Despite the hardships, Madhoo acknowledges the positive transformation the industry has undergone since then. Today, actors can demand makeup vans for privacy and comfort, a luxury unimaginable during her early days. The evolution of facilities on film sets reflects a welcome change, particularly for female actors who no longer have to endure the same hardships.
Madhoo Upcoming Projects
As Madhoo prepares for her comeback in the upcoming movie Karmam Bhugtam alongside Shreyas Talpade, she reflects on how far the industry has come. While the challenges of the past have shaped her journey, she looks forward to a future where actors, regardless of gender, can thrive in an environment that prioritizes their well-being.
Madhoo Shah’s journey is a testament to the resilience of actors in the face of adversity. Through her experiences, she reminds us of the struggles endured by artists in the ’90s and celebrates the progress made since then. As we look towards the future of Indian cinema, Madhoo’s story serves as both a tribute to the past and a beacon of hope for the generations to come.
