Even after four decades in the spotlight, Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit continues to command attention with ease. At a recent promotional event for her upcoming Netflix project Maa Behan, the veteran actor, alongside co-star Tripti Dimri and debutante Dharna Durga, engaged in a candid and lively interaction with a packed audience.
Addressing Age Double Standards
During the event, an audience member raised a question about long-standing industry double standards surrounding ageing. The fan pointed out that while leading male actors such as Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan continue to play romantic leads opposite much younger actresses well into their careers, veteran female actors are often limited to stereotypical roles. Madhuri did not shy away from the critique. While acknowledging the bias, she placed the responsibility on female actors to challenge these norms. “It is up to us as women to take up these roles and actively try to break these stereotypes,” she said, urging women in the industry to push boundaries and create more opportunities for others.
The Evolving Landscape of Bollywood
The discussion also highlighted Bollywood’s evolving landscape, particularly the casting of Dharna Durga, a popular internet influencer making her transition into mainstream cinema. When asked about the challenges of entering a traditionally exclusive industry, Dharna credited the power of manifestation. “The end goal was always to be here,” she said, adding that her viral digital content served as a deliberate stepping stone towards a film career. While many digital creators report facing elitism when transitioning into films, Dharna said her experience on Maa Behan was welcoming and that she faced no friction working alongside established actors.
Madhuri on Family and Priorities
Speaking about her personal life and longevity in the industry, Madhuri said her ability to remain grounded comes from clear priorities. “For me, my family is the most important thing, and everything I do is placed around that,” she explained, noting that she carefully selects projects to ensure her work does not compromise time with her family.
Behind-the-Scenes Fun
The host also prompted the trio to share behind-the-scenes moments, leading to a light-hearted exchange in which Madhuri was revealed to be a talented impersonator. Co-stars Tripti and Dharna shared that she often entertains the crew with her mimicry of people on set once filming wraps. Madhuri, in turn, playfully teased Tripti, noting that despite completing an entire film together, the younger actor still becomes starstruck when speaking to her off-camera. Dharna joked that she behaves like a “perfectly obedient assistant” in Madhuri’s presence, only dropping the act when the veteran star is not around.
