I choose activism over politics, says Raveena Tandon

After being away from the limelight for a long time, actress Raveena Tandon is gearing up for her next movie Maatr. Known for her social activism almost as much as her iconic roles, the actress had been on a hiatus after a cameo in Bombay Velvet. However, the theme of her upcoming feature is such that she felt compelled to take up the film. In a candid interview, she speaks about her film, being a mother to three daughters, the joys of adoption and more.

You adopted two daughters when you were not married. Today, when you see more and more celebrities opting for adoption and surrogacy, how do you look at it?
I advise adoption over surrogacy. I believe that making someone a part of your life through adoption provides a deeper sense of gratification. I feel so proud when I see my girls and what they have made of their lives. Of course, you can go ahead and have biological kids, but to adopt a child is the greatest gift that you can give any child.

More and more actresses are making their comeback with powerful roles. Is there any one specific actress whose work you have enjoyed?
Sridevi has evolved so amazingly. I really loved English Vinglish and now Mom. I have always been a huge fan of hers and I love her work.

There was a time when you used to do commercial films then you suddenly shifted and started doing content-driven films. Why this sudden shift?
As you start growing as an actor and a person, you begin to realise that you want your life to be more than the next hit. One day, I was sitting in a square in Mauritius and it suddenly hit me that I did not want to continue doing only commercially driven films. I wanted to grow and evolve and challenge myself. That is why I attempted films like Shool, Satta and Daman. I am those few lucky ones who have been successful in commercial and in realistic cinema.

Since you have such a strong opinion on various social issues did you ever think of joining politics?
I know we all think that we should try and be the change. There are times when I think that one must become part of the system to bring about change from the inside. Otherwise, the same kind of people will be elected and we will have only ourselves to blame. But then, there is a second voice within me that says I am better as an activist so that I live free and talk free and I am not scared of anyone. I have had offers to join politics many times but I have never said yes.

Why did you say yes to Maatr?
The theme of Maatr is an issue very close to my heart because my blood boils every time I read in the papers about a woman being violated. I met  the mother of the Delhi 2012 gangrape victim, she told me that it’s only for a short time that people bother when someone is raped. Then it’s just back to business.

You are a mother of three daughters. Is there a constant fear within you when they step out?
I never taught them to be timid. In fact, I have asked them to fight back. Are we supposed to walk in this fear all the time? This has to change somewhere, so I also want to be part of the noise that makes that change.