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Amazing grace

CHARM PERSONIFIED Actress Waheeda Rehman talks about her life. Photo: K. Gajendran

To say that she is all grace and poise would be stating the obvious. When veteran actress Waheeda Rehman holds forth, she wins over her audience simply by speaking from the heart. In Hyderabad on a brief visit to release the book penned by her niece Farida Raj, Waheeda spoke about movies and issues close to her heart.

Return of The Guide: Speculations are that Pritish Nandy is planning to remake the Dev Anand and Waheeda Rehman film The Guide. To this, the actress says, "A good idea can always be revisited and perhaps the story can be presented in a better way. If The Guide is being remade, I see nothing wrong with that. It would be nice to see the new film."

We, the people: Waheeda Rehman continues to put in impeccable performances in select films. Talking about one of this year's biggest hits, Rang De Basanti, in which she played a key part, she says, "I liked the concept. More than espousing the need for patriotism, the film ascertained that we, as people, have a crucial role to play in the governance of the country and speak out when things are not going the way they are meant to be."

Celeb voices: Ask her if speaking out on issues make a difference and she cites the example of Aamir Khan. "He has gone all out in support of those who are expressing their concern over the height of the Narmada dam being raised. And Aamir's voice has made people take notice. Not only a celebrity, but I believe that people coming together for a cause does help."

Telugu films: Rang De Basanti was also instrumental in developing a strong bond between the different actors involved. As Waheeda Rehman recalls, "When we worked together for the film, Siddharth requested me to act in a short role in his Telugu film Chukkallo Chandrudu. He's an immensely talented boy and I couldn't refuse. That's how you saw me in the film."

Health takes priority: "While we are constantly trying to meet our commitments, we tend to neglect our health. But I've learnt by experience that taking care of health helps in the long run," says Waheeda, who's been instrumental in launching nutritious breakfast cereals for children.

An hour of yoga: Exercises, she says, have kept her in good stead over the decades. "I do an hour of yoga and stick to my walking routine. That combined with a healthy diet, I think, has helped me."

S.D.K.

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