The fragrance of this rose continues to linger in several ways: in its captivating music, which launched a little-known jingle composer, A.R. Rahman, into stardom; and in its poignant story that evoked patriotism among viewers.
Roja is a Mani Ratnam film that can be watched umpteen number of times, discovering something new every time.
Carrying the film on her frail shoulders was Madhubala, who won hearts with her freshness and childlike glee as she sang onscreen Chinna chinna aasai, the audience empathising with her role as a new bride who has to battle with authorities for the release of her husband, kidnapped by terrorists.
Roja carried a timeless appeal; now, two decades later, Madhubala is still fondly remembered for her portrayal of Roja.
Madhoo, as she is better known, returns to Tamil films with Balaji Mohan’s Vaayai Moodi Pesavum, her first film since Panchalakurichi in 1996. An interviewer’s delight, Madhoo, sans airs, can hold court.
In an exclusive chat with tabloid!, Madhoo talks about her role and her new dreams.
Q: How does it feel to return to the Tamil screen?
A: It feels wonderful. I am overwhelmed with the affection shown to me by the industry and media. I had not expected this kind of love and I am enjoying every moment of it. It makes me feel proud to be still remembered as the Roja girl, though at that time I did not understand the significance of my role.
Q: Tell us about your new role.
A: I play the heroine’s stepmum. She is a writer who is trying to bond with her stepdaughter. She gives up her work to make her marriage work and for the sake of her family. She does go back to writing eventually but it is not through a fight but with the support of her family whom she takes along with her.
Q: How does it feel to work with a young team?
A: After the initial nervousness, it felt great coming back to the sets. It seemed like being [in a] familiar zone. The young team kept the energy level on the sets high and I never felt old with them. Besides, I pick up things fast.
Q: Tell us about your co-stars.
A: Dulquer [Salman] is completely unassuming. On our first meeting, I remembered Mammukka [Mammootty], his father, with whom I had worked in Neelagiri. I was a junior [actor] then and he was a superstar. Now, the roles were reversed. Dulquer was being himself and there was nothing borrowed from his father. Nazriya [Nazim] reminded me of what I used to be on the sets — bubbly and playful. I liked her freshness.
Q: how was it to work with director Balaji Mohan?
A: He was a pleasant surprise. I had not watched his first film and did not know what to expect. As the film progressed, I realised that he was a talented person who would go places. It took me back to 1993, when I had worked with director Shankar on Gentleman. It was Shankar’s debut film and he showed great promise.
Q: What are your dreams?
A: I would love to work once again. There are talks for a Hindi film and I am waiting for the response to Vaayai Moodi Pesavum.
