In an exclusive interview with The Daily Guardian, Sharmila Tagore reflects on her journey from controversy to family bonds, emphasizing the importance of adaptation and self-awareness. From early glamour to leadership roles, she learned to prioritize substance over image. Despite initial criticism, her choices, including the iconic bikini shot, contributed to societal shifts towards feminism. She shares a strong bond with her daughters, bridging distances for family gatherings.
Q: How do you feel about the love and admiration you receive from your granddaughter?
A: The love and admiration I receive from my granddaughter are deeply touching. Witnessing her affection fills my heart with warmth and gratitude. I believe she deserves all the love and joy in the world, and I cherish every moment spent with her.
Q: Could you share something about your childhood and your time with your parents?
A: My childhood in Calcutta was a treasure trove of cherished memories. Growing up in a loving and illustrious family, I experienced immense warmth and affection. While it’s challenging to encapsulate my entire childhood in a few words, I fondly recall moments spent with my parents, filled with love, laughter, and invaluable life lessons.
Q: Can we have some music of Sharmila ji and dance to it?
A: Absolutely, music has a unique ability to unite people and infuse joy into any occasion. If dancing to my music brings happiness to those present, I wholeheartedly support it.
Q: What role do you enjoy the most as a mother of girls?
A: Being a mother to my daughters brings me unparalleled joy. Their happiness and well-being are my top priorities, and I cherish every moment spent with them. Whether it’s offering guidance, sharing laughter, or simply being there for them, the role of a mother is immensely fulfilling.
Q: How do you maintain balance and politeness, especially during media interactions?
A: Maintaining balance and politeness during media interactions is crucial. Despite the repetition of questions, I strive to approach each interaction with sincerity and grace. It’s essential to take media engagements seriously while also acknowledging the importance of maintaining composure and respectfulness.
Q: Can you share your thoughts on the two different sides of Sharmila, from being featured in a bikini shot to becoming a co-chief of Sense Abode?
A: Certainly, the journey from posing in a bikini shot to assuming a leadership role at Sense Abode marked a significant evolution in my life and career. The bikini shot, featured in a Filmfare cover before “Evening in Paris,” garnered both positive and negative attention. While I initially reveled in the glamour and excitement, the experience taught me valuable lessons about perception and image. Despite feeling confident and believing I looked nice, the comments, both favorable and critical, left a lasting impact.
Following the bikini incident, my director Shakti ji advised some form of “damage control.” This nudged me to reassess my image and career trajectory. I recognized the limitations of a solely glamorous persona and the importance of substance and performance in the roles I chose. Hence, I started selecting projects with care, prioritizing roles that offered more than just surface-level allure.
Over time, the bikini shot, once controversial, came to be associated with feminism and empowerment. Despite initial disapproval, it contributed to a broader discourse on women’s autonomy over their bodies. This transformation underscores the dynamic nature of societal perceptions and the power of individual agency.
Q: How has your relationship been with your daughters, Soha and Saba?
A: Our relationship is characterized by love, mutual respect, and understanding. Despite geographical distance, we make conscious efforts to stay connected and spend quality time together. Whether it’s meeting for lunch in Mumbai or gathering for special occasions like Diwali, Eid, or birthdays, we prioritize family bonding. Despite our busy schedules, fostering a strong familial bond remains a priority.
Q: Do you have any specific memories or experiences that stand out from your childhood?
A: My childhood was filled with countless memorable experiences, each contributing to a tapestry of fond recollections. From family gatherings to simple moments of joy, every memory holds a special place in my heart. While it would take time to recount them all, the overarching theme is one of love, laughter, and cherished connections.
An event organised by FICCI YFLO and Dr Payal Kanodia.
