Bollywood star Kajol, known for her iconic roles, recently shared a surprising personal revelation: she never initially aspired to be an actor. This decision stemmed from witnessing the demanding and often unstable career of her mother, veteran actress Tanuja Mukherjee. In a candid conversation, Kajol detailed how her mother’s relentless work schedule, often from dawn till late night with little financial reward, made her hesitant to enter the film industry. Kajol recalled thinking, “I never want to work that hard,” and stated that the lack of stability was the primary reason she avoided films, despite acting being a constant part of her life through her family.
Kajol’s perspective resonates with current discussions about fair pay and work-life balance for women in the entertainment industry, a sentiment echoed by other prominent actresses. She emphasized that she now prioritizes projects that respect her time and personal boundaries. “If I like a script, there aren’t too many do’s and don’ts,” Kajol mentioned, highlighting her clear boundaries, such as refusing scenes depicting molestation or rape, as she doesn’t find them necessary to prove her acting prowess. Her reflections offer a valuable insight into how her mother’s experiences shaped her own approach to her career, valuing balance and personal well-being.