Sridevi: I am happy that audience is demanding for a change in films

Sridevi is happy that filmmakers are keeping up with the changing times in the film industry and giving new content that the audience demand and love to see.

Sridevi has been one of the most enduring careers in Indian cinema, spanning Bollywood and regional film industries. That makes her — acclaimed actor, glamorous star, box office queen of her heydays, and Padma Shri award winner — the perfect person to say what it means to be a woman in this high-pressure industry.

Since being a star is still a lot about one’s appearance, Sridevi says that it’s not an easy task for female actors to consistently maintain standards of perfection. They’re always under pressure to look good, even when they’re not on camera, she says. That pressure has only been increased by the age of social media.

As for herself, Sridevi says that she managed to steer her career while keeping the pressures at bay. She enjoyed being a leading lady — “I got to wear different clothes, I got to do the best roles. And she didn’t let box office numbers kill her sleep. “If the picture does well, I’m surprised and happy; and if it doesn’t do well, then it’s part of your profession. You see what went wrong and try not to do the same mistake,” says Sridevi.

Having spent almost five decades in the film industry and with almost 300 films to her credit — in Bollywood and regional cinema — she is happy with the state of affairs of the film industry. She is glad that the audience is now demanding a change, which the filmmakers are happily catering to.

“I am very happy that the audience is willing to see something different [from what has been shown to them in the past]. It’s not only for those who enjoy watching films but also the fact that it’s giving a push to industry people to deliver good content,” says Sridevi.

The actor, who has been a part of hits such as Sadma (1983), Chaalbaaz (1989), Chandani (1989) and Mr India (1987), says that working with different content on screen also gives a sense of challenge to artists.

“It’s a great thing for an actor as well because you progress in your work only when you get to do different [kinds of] films. I personally feel that this, indeed, is the best time to be in the industry,” adds Sridevi.

With constant speculations about her daughters Jhanvi and Khushi making a Bollywood debut soon, Sridevi says, “As a mother, I am definitely concerned and worried about them. But the time has changed and you have to accept and be positive about it, and give your best.”