Aditi reflects on 20 years of cinema, embracing growth and self-discovery

As actress Aditi Rao Hydari prepares to turn 40 on Oct.28, the actress is looking back at nearly two decades in cinema with a sense of gratitude, clarity and, perhaps most importantly, curiosity. As she approaches this milestone birthday, Aditi says the biggest lesson she would give her younger self is to simply stay true to who she is.

“I would tell her to just happily be herself, not listen to the noise, trust the ones who will nurture her and challenge her. To not be in a hurry to have everything figured out. To enjoy learning, to always be curious, to be unafraid to make mistakes because you can and you will turn them around,” she says.

Looking back at her journey, Aditi admits that it has not always been an easy road. But rather than holding on to disappointments, she chooses to focus on what every experience has taught her.

“I choose to be grateful for every blessing, and the ability to overcome and not dwell on situations that feel unkind or unfair. It’s always been an uphill climb, but while every step uphill is tough, it’s a step up and as long as I am able to do that I’m grateful,” she says.

At this stage in her career, the actress is also clear about knowing her worth and choosing the people and projects she wants to be associated with. “I believe that I must and will be the best version of myself, work hard and work with the best who demand the best of me and also value me. I’m determined to work in this way. If people mess with me, deny me what I deserve then that’s on them... it’s their karma,” she says.

With her birthday falling around Diwali, celebrations have always been a part of Aditi’s childhood memories. However, she prefers to keep things simple and spontaneous. “I don’t usually make elaborate plans for my birthday. I like spending time with the people I love. For me, birthdays are more about feeling centered and rooted. And in fact not making any plans... Impromptu plans feel the most magical and fun,” she says.

On the work front, Aditi was last seen in “Gandhi Talks,” which chooses restraint, emotion, and stillness to communicate its message. It also stars Vijay Sethupathi, Arvind Swamy, and Siddharth Jadhav.

“The film is a black comedy exploring the contrast between Gandhi on currency notes and his ideals, focusing on a young man’s struggle for money and crossing paths with a thief.

She was previously seen in “Hey! Sinamika” directed by Brinda. It is an adaptation of the 2008 Argentine film “A Boyfriend for My Wife,” but has the roles switched. Aditi, who is married to actor Sidharth, made her acting debut with the Malayalam film “Prajapathi” in 2006. She gained early recognition with her performances in “Delhi 6” and “Yeh Saali Zindagi.”

Indo-Asian News Service