Actor Kajol, who is set to star in the upcoming film Do Patti, has opened up about a pivotal moment in her early career when she considered quitting acting.
In an exclusive interview with India Today, Kajol shared that it was none other than superstar Shah Rukh Khan who encouraged her to persevere in the industry.
In Do Patti, Kajol will be seen in a groundbreaking role as a police officer, a character that marks her first experience wearing a uniform on screen. Known for her dynamic performances over the decades, Kajol revealed that portraying this role required a different approach to her craft.
Reflecting on her journey, Kajol recalled a moment after filming Udhaar Ki Zindagi, her third film, when she felt completely burnt out.
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“I was very new, probably around 17 or 18 years old at the time. I remember finishing the film and feeling utterly exhausted. I told my mother, ‘You know, mum, I’m done. At the tender age of 18-and-a-half, I cannot move anymore. I cannot cry anymore. I cannot put glycerine on my eyes anymore. I don’t want to do these films. I want to do, you know, four scenes, ten songs.’ That’s when I signed up for more commercial films like Gunda Raj and Hulchul,” she said.
Kajol recounted Shah Rukh Khan’s advice during that formative period: “He said, ‘You know, you just have to learn how to act.’ At that time, I thought, what is he talking about? Of course, I’m doing a fabulous job! But it was a wake-up call that led me to discover the true technique of acting.”
With her upcoming role in Do Patti, Kajol is ready to showcase her versatility once again, proving that sometimes, the journey to mastering one’s craft requires resilience and the right encouragement.
