Kajal Aggarwal addressed the challenges she faced as a married female actor in the Southern film industry.
Kajal Aggarwal, a prominent figure in Indian cinema, has always been known for her versatility and dedication. As she prepares for the release of her latest film, Satyabhama, Kajal candidly shares her journey through motherhood and her return to the film industry after a brief hiatus.
In a recent interview with Galatta Plus, Kajal addressed the challenges she faced as a married female actor in the Southern film industry. She highlighted the significant disparity in the types of roles offered to female actors in the South compared to Bollywood stars like Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt. “Southern filmmakers need to broaden their scope regarding film genres and roles for married female actors,” she emphasized. This disparity, particularly in romantic leads and action films, has long been a point of contention and discussion.
Kajal also opened up about her insecurities and anxiety during her maternity leave. “I wondered if I would ever get those lucrative offers ever again,” she admitted, reflecting on the stress and uncertainty she experienced. Despite these fears, Kajal remained steadfast in her principles, choosing not to accept just any role that came her way. “As actors, we go through ups and downs, but even in my low period, when I was anxious, I didn’t just do anything that came my way,” she said.
Returning to work postpartum was not without its challenges. Kajal suffered from separation anxiety and “mom guilt” as she resumed her career. In an interview, she revealed, “I took therapy to deal with it and was on anti-depressants when it was safe to take them. Having a baby is challenging.”
Despite these difficulties, Kajal’s resilience and determination shone through. She credited her successful return to the support of her husband, Gautam, and her own perseverance. “My husband can always reach me, no matter how busy I am. I have maintained that from day one,” she shared.
Kajal‘s upcoming projects include Indian 2, where she stars alongside Kamal Haasan, Siddharth, and Rakul Preet Singh. She also mentioned her involvement in Kanappa, a film based on mythology, which she chose because of her love for the genre. Her portrayal of a police officer in Satyabhama marks a significant milestone in her career, showcasing her versatility and dedication as an actor.
Through her candid interviews and open discussions, Kajal Aggarwal has highlighted the importance of mental health and the need for more diverse and substantial roles for married female actors in the film industry. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with resilience and support, it is possible to overcome personal challenges and continue to thrive in one’s career.
As Satyabhama gears up for its release, fans eagerly await to see Kajal Aggarwal’s powerful performance, once again proving her mettle as an actor who defies the odds and continues to shine.
