Aditi Rao Hydari: I have guardian angels

Aditi Rao Hydari’s role as Sameera Rathod in Sammohanam left a lasting impression in the hearts of the Telugu audience. The role has been hailed as one of the strongest female characters written in Telugu. The actor also received acclaim for her brief yet evocative role as Mehrunissa in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s epic drama Padmaavat. 

“I think every film and every experience helps you grow and learn, I would say Mani Ratnam’s film and Padmaavat made me believe that if you have a dream and your intentions are guided by that dream then it does come true,” Aditi says.

She adds, “They are legendary directors and for me with no backing to be living that dream has been so fulfilling. I feel blessed. I know that it makes a difference to one's career to have experiences like these and I am grateful for them. I am convinced I have guardian angels.”

So which roles are closest to her heart? “I loved playing Leela in Mani sir’s love story (Kaatru Veliyidai). It was an epic and fraught love story. I also loved playing Mehrunissa, and felt lucky to have been picked to play such a beautiful person. And my most recent Sammohanam in Telugu which is a huge success and still playing in theaters is special too.”

Asked if she feels that she has finally arrived in Bollywood, she says, “I don’t even think like that, these things are for others to say. I’d rather put my energy and love into my work.”

Sammohanam is said to be inspired by the acclaimed romcom Notting Hill. About choosing to do the film, Aditi says, “I always wanted to do a films like My Week with Marilyn, Notting Hill and Roman Holiday so I jumped at this opportunity”

The actor says that she likes roles that have character. “They (heroines) can be feminine, vulnerable but also are strong and fearless. I am drawn to characters like these. I think we have to be the change we want. So as girls in the industry, we are pushing for the change and I hope industries all over India push for this change... not just us girls! Women are an integral part of any story real or reel.”

Aditi is currently shooting for Mani Ratnam’s next film, Chekka Chivantha Vaanam, as well as for a film set in space directed by Sankalp Reddy.

“I’m trying to do pan Indian work. I want to keep working with the best story tellers and directors. They inspire me, they have made me and taught me whatever I know,” she says.