Bollywood's living legend

Hema Malini

This year's Bangkok Inter-national Film Festival pays tribute to an actress who's not just a star, she's a legend. Named Bollywood's "Dream Girl" after her big-screen debut in 1968 with "The Dreamseller", Hema Malini has been charming Thai audiences since the '70s.

Now 58, Malini, has starred opposite Bollywood's biggest names, from Rajesh Khanna to Dharmender, who she later married, and Amitabh Bachchan with whom she made a comeback in 2003 with "Baghban".

The five movies to be screened at the festival offer a fascinating portrait of this multi-dimensional artist, who's also a well-known Bharatnatyam dancer and a member of the Upper House of the Indian Parliament.

Are you excited by this tribute?

Of course! It's a great honour for any artist, and as this is the first time, it's even more exciting, as a retrospective speaks volumes about one's work, both in terms of quality and quantity.

Do you enjoy visiting Bangkok?

Thailand and India have similar cultures. Bangkok is like a second home to me. I love this lively, colourful city and its warm people. I've been here for some dance performances and for the premiere of my film "Prem Nagar" many years ago. I also visit Bangkok regularly with my daughter, Esha.

Do you have any favourite films in your long career?

I've made more than 200 films and am proud of each and every one. Every shot, every role, every location has been memorable and an experience in itself. The five films being screened at this festival have all been significant to my career.

What about your favourite actors?

Well, my husband, obviously. We had excellent rapport on the set. But I learned something from each of my co-stars. Acting with Amitabh Bachchan after 20 years in "Baghban" was like going back to old times.

Do you still continue with your dance performances?

Yes, I've loved dancing since I was a child. My classical performances allow me to enact the lives of various characters on stage, so I don't miss acting in films at all. I'm proud of my dance-institution, which is one of the best in the country. Most of my dance shows now are for charity.

Is that how you keep in shape? Could you divulge some beauty and health secrets?

Yes, dance keeps me fit. Yoga and weights are an essential part of my daily routine.

My morning begins with pranayama [yogic breathing exercise]. If at is not enough, my advice is to eat one cardamom a day! I think Thai women are very beautiful and I should get tips from them! They have the most amazing bodies and complexions.

Do you find acting or dancing more demanding?

They complement each other and I'm fortunate to be able to do both. They are both an integral part of my life.

You're one of the few actresses to live on your own terms, both personally and professionally. How do you manage that?

I'm lucky that I've been able to make many female-oriented films in a male-dominated industry. You learn from the situations you face and that helps you achieve independence.

What are the biggest changes you see in films today?

Technically, our industry has come a long way. The audience is international and every aspect of our films has evolved in such a way that they can be compared to Hollywood movies.

Do you enjoy Asian cinema?

I am a big fan of Asian films. I've watched "Fan Chan" and "Tropical Malady" from Thailand as well as "Sympathy for Lady Vengeance". I loved "Crouching Tiger and Hidden Dragon" and "Water".

How challenging is your new career in the Parliament?

I cherish my position as a decision-maker in the world's biggest democracy. I'm actively involved in policies and decisions concerning under-privileged children, tribal populations, the artist community, the conservation of India's historical heritage and preservation of our ancient arts and culture.

What are your plans for the future?

Very few people get to enjoy so many roles in one lifetime and I'm lucky to have been successful in all of them. I intend doing a lot in the future - I want to create an academy for the performing arts in Bombay, a home for the aged, an animal farm. Cinema and dance will continue, of course.

Lekha J Shankar

Special to the Nation