‘I’m Looking for Characters That Challenge Me’

After more than four decades in cinema, Madhuri Dixit says she is no longer interested in playing idealized women and is instead drawn to complex, imperfect characters that challenge her as a performer. The actor, who returns with Maa Behen, also speaks about the appeal of digital storytelling and the joy of working with the film’s team.

At this juncture of your career, are you keen to increase the volume of your work? What do you look for in your characters?

I think I’m looking for something different every time I come on screen. Mrs. Deshpande was very different from The Fame Game, and both were very different from Maja Ma. As you can see in my new film Maa Behen, I don’t mind being a little wicked. The heroine no longer needs to be whitewashed. My role in this film is also extremely different from anything I’ve played before. I’m looking for something challenging, something that excites me enough to go to the set and work every day.

Which films would you consider the turning points of your career?

The biggest turning point was Tezaab. I was already in the industry and working regularly, but I hadn’t had a major success. Tezaab was my first big hit. And, of course, the rest is history.

How different is it working on a digital platform compared to the big screen?

I don’t think there’s a huge difference because, whether it’s a film or a digital project, you’re ultimately playing a character. The only difference is that a series gives you more time to establish characters and their backstories. Even the smaller characters are explored in greater depth, which adds layers to the narrative. In a film, the arc is shorter and you have to convey everything in less time. But it doesn’t change what we do as actors.

How was the experience of working with the Maa Behen team?

It was easy because we got along famously, all of us. I had always wanted to work with director Suresh Triveni after watching Tumhari Sulu. When this opportunity came along, I was very excited. Working with Triptii Dimri and Dharna Durga has been amazing. We got along like a house on fire, and, while filming, we practically set the house on fire! (Laughs) Ravi Kishanji and all the other actors were fantastic. We had a blast making this film. It has been an exciting journey, and I hope audiences enjoy it.

What attracted you to the project?

The characters were amazing. The film portrays a chaotic, dysfunctional family. They are far from perfect, and there’s a certain madness to their world. The mother’s role, which I am playing, is a strong woman in her own right. She breaks all the rules and even pulls her children into her chaos. That’s what I loved about the character. Women, especially mothers, are often placed on a pedestal. But this film breaks that convention. She isn’t the ideal mother — she is human first. That’s what made the role so attractive to me.

What was your initial reaction to the title Maa Behen and the theme?

At first, I was surprised by the title. But once I heard the script, I felt it was absolutely apt. The title is also a little tongue-in-cheek, much like the film itself. It’s a comedy, a drama, a mystery and a crime thriller — all rolled into one.