Dimple Kapadia Reflects on Acting Choices and Self-Perception in Candid Interview

Dimple Kapadia's Unique Perspective on Acting

In a refreshingly candid and humorous interview, Dimple Kapadia shared her selective approach to acting, her self-image, and her lack of urgency in pursuing fame.

Directors are eager to collaborate with you, yet you seem uninterested?
(Laughs heartily) Where are these eager directors? Please send them my way! If the work is good, I’m all in. I’m not avoiding acting; I just have my standards. I need to feel a connection to the role. I refuse to take on meaningless parts.

You've had your share of trivial roles in the past.
True, I have. However, I generally steer clear of them. Sometimes, you have to accept roles that don’t excite you. I’m not a poor decision-maker. While I’ve had some less favorable roles, I’ve also enjoyed many wonderful ones.

What are you currently seeking in your roles?
At this moment? A bit of tranquility. After this interview, I’d like some peace without anyone picking my brain.

I meant in terms of acting roles.
A-ha, I anticipated that! Honestly, I’m not sure. I have plenty of time, but I need to discover roles that inspire me.

And do you need a push?
Absolutely, directors often have to coax me into action. I can take a year just to agree. Who wants to wait around for that? I often find myself saying yes, but sometimes it ends up being a no.

What’s next for you on screen?
Why so many questions! I don’t have an answer. I’m unsure of what tomorrow holds. Currently, there’s nothing beyond Leela. However, I would love to collaborate with Gulzar Bhai again. He’s a genius, but you have to plead to work with him. I had to beg him for Lekin.

Your face has the intrigue to portray Madame Bovary.
It’s not a mysterious face at all; it’s quite expressive. Everything is visible on it.

Do you consider yourself beautiful?
I believe I’m the most beautiful woman in the world (laughs). If I ever say that seriously, you’ll know I’ve lost my mind.

Many people think so; why don’t you?
Because self-perception is more important than others’ opinions.

What do you think of yourself?
Why should I share that? It’s a personal matter.

Your thoughts are private, but your face is public.
How can you say that? Alright, here’s my take: I find my face attractive. Sure, I have a quirky chin and a slightly bulbous nose. Maybe I should consider plastic surgery. One side of my jaw looks like it had a run-in with a bus. All these features contribute to my beauty.

It seems you struggle with self-esteem.
I’m just being honest. Why should I feel low about myself?

Perhaps because you’ve let chances to become a major star slip away?
What makes you think I’m not a major star? Do you believe I should have achieved more? What opportunities did I miss? I’ve always been content with my life. How far do you need to run to be considered a marathon runner? I look back and feel fulfilled. Everyone has their own definition of a successful life. Your expectations of me are not my concern.

Have you sought permanence in your life?
(Pensively) I think everyone seeks permanence, even knowing it’s unattainable. Life continues, and that’s its beauty.

Do you miss being married?
Oddly enough, not at all.

Not even now that both your daughters are independent?
When have they ever been dependent on me? They come and go as they please. They’re there when I need them.

You’ve spent over half your life raising them?
What are you implying? Don’t misrepresent me. I’m not one of those mothers who live solely for their children. I’ve lived my life as it came. Everyone, including my daughters, has their own path.

I hear your son-in-law adores you?
Excuse me, my son-in-law has a name, in case you forgot. I cherish him. If he adores me, that’s wonderful; it should be that way.