ANN/THE STATESMAN – It’s a tale of resilience in the ever-evolving landscape of Bollywood.
In a recent intimate conversation, actress Shilpa Shetty reflects on her path to overcoming typecasting, acknowledges the crucial role of family support, and discusses her diverse roles in the aftermath of Dhadkan.
Shilpa opens up about her cinematic journey, expresses heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering backing, particularly from her husband, Raj Kundra.
Shilpa revealed the challenge of typecasting for nearly seven to eight years as she reflected on the early years of her career.
The 90s, she emphasised, was a different era where perceptions played a pivotal role.
However, a turning point came with her role in Dhadkan, a film that not only showcased her acting prowess but also marked a departure from the glamorous roles that had defined her earlier career.
“It’s not like I wasn’t acting, but the 90s was a different era,” Shilpa explained. The film’s director, Dharmesh Darshan, played a crucial role in breaking the glamorous mold and presenting Shilpa in a new light. The character of Anjali in Dhadkan was both glamorous and imbued with a touch of Indianness, making her appeal simultaneously classy and relatable to the masses.
This shift in perception paved the way for Shilpa to explore diverse roles in subsequent projects such as Phir Milenge, A Life In A Metro, Dus, and Rishtey.
These films marked significant milestones in her career, allowing her to portray a wide range of characters.
The actress attributes this transformative phase to the success and reception of Dhadkan, which opened doors beyond the confines of typecasting.
Beyond her professional journey, Shilpa Shetty also touched upon the influence of her family, particularly her son Viaan, in shaping her career decisions. She credited her family’s support, especially her husband Raj Kundra, for being the pillar of strength during both highs and lows in her career.
As Shilpa Shetty continues to break barriers and redefine her trajectory in the film industry, her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors navigating the challenges of typecasting and societal expectations.
In her own words, the journey from being typecast to portraying a diverse range of characters has been a testament to resilience, talent, and the invaluable support of loved ones.
