Neena Gupta: Masaba and Madhu are trying to figure a way out

Neena Gupta is seldom seen in movies. Quiz her about it and she smiles, “Hamare liye koi achcha role hi nahin likhta toh kya karein?” On that note, we talk at length about her recent release Badhaai Ho, which deals with late pregnancy, what helped her make this unique choice and her relationship with daughter Masaba Gupta. Excerpts...

What was it about Badhaai Ho that prompted you to give your nod to it?

It was the script that appealed to me. It’s unique and has all the navrasa (emotions) in it. It isn’t just a pure comedy — it’s a story of a family and how they handle an unexpected situation (late pregnancy). The makers have smartly put the whole plot together. 

Do you think the audience is also evolving with the times and accepting such subjects?

There’s no question of evolution. The audience has never been given these kind of films and content before. This is what they identify with. Previously, they were only presented larger-than-life stories, which they accepted. Now that they are getting this, they are liking it more because it’s closer to who they are. Case in point are movies such as Sui Dhaaga: Made In India, Rajma Chawal, Pataakha and Newton. That’s also the novelty of our film — it’s a subject which nobody has ever picked up and that’s where we score. 

But this was always considered a taboo subject...

This theme was considered a taboo earlier, but not anymore. People might have thought about making a movie on it, but they didn’t know how to go about it. It’s tough and that way, the hero of our film has to be the script. 

Why don’t we see you in more films?

For an actor, especially in my age group, there’s a dearth of roles. There was a time when I had to take up any and every film because I needed the money. But now, I can afford to wait for a good role to come my way. Nothing else matters except that. As for men, there are lots of such characters being written forever. But it isn’t the same for women. There’s a slight transformation with the kind of films that are being made today. Movies are no longer hero or heroine-oriented, they have an ensemble cast that also gets their due respect. 

Do you have any other projects lined up after Badhaai Ho?

I have another film coming up called The Last Colour helmed by chef Vikas Khanna.

Any plans to direct again?

No. I’m enjoying acting at present and I don’t want to put a break to it.

How often do you discuss your films with Masaba?

I don’t consult Masaba about my films. It’s totally my decision. We don’t discuss too much of our work.

What kind of a bond do you share with each other?

Masaba is quite unlike me. She’s an introvert, who has her own mind and likes to take risks. We don’t share everything, but we talk a lot about various things.

Recently, Masaba and her husband Madhu Mantena announced their trial separation. What has been your advice to her?

They have still not taken a definite step. They are trying to figure a way out. It’s too early to talk about it, but whatever has to happen, will happen. When the time comes, we will discuss it.