Even though Kajol's parents are well-known actors, Tanuja and Shomu Mukherjee, she demonstrated her acting abilities when she entered the business in 1992 with her first feature, Bekhudi . She eventually starred opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the financially successful movie, Baazigar . She has demonstrated her abilities in several award-winning projects since then. The actress thus claimed in an interview that her current identity isn't a result of her family or her cinematic upbringing.
During the fourth Expresso session organized by The Indian Express, Kajol discussed how her hard work has contributed to her legacy and impressive filmography. The Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge actress said , "It isn't about legacy." She further said:
"It is the labor of all women."
Kajol also noted that iconic actresses like Sharmila Tagore and Nargis are successful not because they have a legacy but because they are successful because of their own hard work. Kajol highlighted the collective strength of women in the industry, showcasing how their contributions continue to shape cinema for future generations. Her reflections serve as a reminder that the value of one's work lies in its ability to inspire and uplift others.
Kajol acknowledged that her current status is not due to her ancestry and credited herself for getting there. She claims that it is the inheritance of all hard-working women. Speaking about pausing when necessary, the Kuch Kuch Hota Hai actress emphasized that all women must answer the phone when they wish to take a break or return. She also highlighted the importance of self-care, urging women to prioritize their mental health, noting that taking time for themselves is not a luxury but a necessity. This mindset encourages others to embrace their journeys and recognize their worth.
Kajol, reflected on her career, noting that her filmography suggests she is "probably the least worked actor." Drawing inspiration from her mother, veteran actress, Tanuja , and her grandmother, late filmmaker-actor, Shobhna Samarth, Kajol shared their wisdom that work is merely a part of life, not its entirety. This perspective has shaped her approach to her career, emphasizing the importance of personal life alongside professional commitments.
Continue reading below
In discussing her time away from the film industry, Kajol explained that her breaks were intentional, as she wanted to focus on marriage and motherhood. Despite her periods of absence, she expressed gratitude for remaining relevant in the industry after decades since her debut. She concluded with a touch of humor, "I am thankful to everyone for having good taste so far," acknowledging the continued appreciation for her work. On the work front, she will be next seen in Shashanka Chaturvedi's upcoming romantic thriller film with Kriti Sanon and Shaheer Sheikh.
Let us know your thoughts on Kajol's inspiring journey and her insights on balancing career and family!
