Smriti Irani Shares Insights on Her Career in 'Aap Ki Adalat'

New Delhi. BJP leader and former Union Minister Smriti Irani made several revelations about her acting and political journey during her appearance on Rajat Sharma's show 'Aap Ki Adalat'. The episode is set to air tonight at 10 PM on a popular news channel.

When Rajat Sharma inquired about a phone call she received while filming in Shimla with Rishi Kapoor, Irani recounted, 'I was in Shimla working on a film with Rishi Kapoor when I got a call early in the morning asking me to come to Delhi for an oath-taking ceremony that afternoon. The last moment I faced the camera was with the late Rishi Kapoor.'

Rajat Sharma: Did Rishi Kapoor offer you any advice?

Smriti Irani: 'He advised me not to blink or waste time. The crew members expressed their happiness and urged me to pack quickly and head to Delhi, emphasizing that there is no greater service than serving the nation.'

Rajat Sharma: Do you think there will be another opportunity for you to receive a call and take an oath again, perhaps from the set of 'Kyunki...'?

Smriti Irani: 'I don’t seek opportunities; they find me. I cannot predict when an opportunity will arise. What I do know is that when it does, I will not be unprepared or embarrassed. I promise that I will not fall below the benchmark that I have set for myself in politics and media.'

When reminded by Rajat Sharma about Amitabh Bachchan's departure from politics, referring to it as a 'cesspool', and Rajesh Khanna's disillusionment, Smriti Irani responded: 'I did not enter politics for personal gain. I am involved in national policy. In politics, one seeks personal interests, while in national policy, one aims for new heights and achievements for the nation. There is a significant difference between acting for oneself and serving others. Very few get the chance to live for others, and if you do, you should give your all. My greatest achievement is that I came into the BJP as Smriti Irani and have now become a sister.'

Rajat Sharma: What was your experience working with Vinod Khanna?

Smriti Irani: 'He was an exceptionally talented and experienced actor, and his dedication to politics was commendable. He was very disciplined and had a no-nonsense attitude. Working with him and adapting to his straightforward approach was a badge of honor. Hema Ji also contributed significantly, and even though Shatrughan Sinha is now with another party, he was one of the first to award me. I remember judging a show where the contestant is now the Chief Minister of Punjab.'

Rajat Sharma: Bhagwant Mann... Shatrughan's sense of humor is remarkable, isn't it?

Smriti Irani: 'I prefer to refrain from commenting on that. However, all these legends have made their mark. I also worked with Dutt Sahab, who, despite being in Congress, made his contributions. Regarding Amit Ji, many say he became disheartened. His personality is such that if swords are drawn, he prefers to be a peacemaker. We belong to a generation that believes swords should not be sheathed until blood is shed. This reflects a difference in perspective and experience.'

When Rajat Sharma showed some old modeling photos of Smriti Irani and remarked on their stunning quality, she replied: 'They are not stunning, but...'

Rajat Sharma: Let's show the audience...

Smriti Irani: 'Because Smriti was once slim. These are pictures from my Miss India days. You might not believe it now, but I was a finalist in Miss India.'

Smriti Irani's episode on 'Aap Ki Adalat' will air tonight at 10 PM on a popular news channel, with replays scheduled for Sunday at 10 AM and 10 PM.