Neena gupta
After a five-year hiatus, Neena Gupta is making a comeback with Issaq, an adaptation of Romeo & Juliet. She talks to Sangeeta Yadav about her role in the movie, her bond with her daughter Masaba and her theatre plans
‘Interesting to be Juliet’s nurse’
What is keeping you busy these daysIJ
I’m busy managing the financial side of my daughter’s design and decor business. Masaba wanted somebody from the family to take care of her finances. When she asked me to, I couldn’t refuse. Since my husband is busy with his business, I took charge of Masaba’s accounts.
You are making a comeback in Bollywood with Issaq...
For me, there is nothing like making a comeback or going back to something. It’s all about getting the right kind of projects. In this industry, people of my age hardly get good roles. So it’s always better to wait for a one good one instead of doing all roles that come your way.
In Issaq, I’m playing the role of Angelica, Juliet’s nurse. When director Manish offered me this role, I found the character very interesting and gave it a try. I am glad I did. Because the film looks quite good.
Any plans to venture into theatreIJ
I have always been a theatre person and have been in touch with the medium even during my break. There are talks about a stage play but nothing concrete has been decided as of now. But whatever it will be, I am on.
You have spent more than 30 years in this industry. What is it that has changedIJ
I am not all that aware of the happenings in Bollywood but I have heard people complaining about how the music scene has changed. There is a positive way to look at this too. Actors have become more professional and respect each other’s time. The industry is blessed with a lot of talent and I am pleased with the variety that it offers in terms of cinema these days.
Tell us about Masaba...
She is an extremely talented, creative and independent girl. Masaba has a very good sense of colour combination and design. She comes up with brilliant ideas for her own collection. I am awed by her talent for design and decor. It is unbelievable how such a young girl can come up with so many fresh ideas all the time.
Are you a strict motherIJ
I am a disciplinarian who is not very strict. We are a typical mother-daughter duo. I’m a straight forward person and expect my daughter to be honest with me. We don’t keep problems to ourselves. I have never forced a career option on my daughter. She is free to choose what she wants to do with her life. I will always be her support system. She likes dancing and acting but she doesn’t want to enter Bollywood yet.