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"I FEEL THIS IS THE BEST YEAR OF MY CAREER."

Hashtag Magazine

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August 2025

R. Madhavan is back in the spotlight with Aap Jaisa Koi, a heartwarming family drama that explores love, loneliness, and rediscovery in life's quieter chapters. As Shrirenu Tripathi—a quiet, 42-year-old man who unexpectedly rediscovers love and himself—Madhavan delivers one of his most layered performances yet. Directed by Vivek Soni and co-starring Fatima Sana Shaikh, the film explores emotional vulnerability, second chances, and the beauty of finding “Barabari Wala Pyaar.” In a candid chat with Lipika Varma, Madhavan opens up about the film, love, ageing, and his evolving journey as an actor.

- - R MADHAVAN

"I FEEL THIS IS THE BEST YEAR OF MY CAREER."

What drew you to Aap Jaisa Koi, and what was it like playing Shrirenu?

Aap Jaisa Koi is unlike any love story I've done before; it's quiet, awkward, and deeply human. Shrirenu is one of the most complex characters I've played, someone who longs for companionship and closeness, but doesn't quite know how to ask for it, yet he is rich with emotion underneath. This film isn't loud or dramatic — it's patient, gentle, and deeply affecting. I was drawn to how it speaks to all the people who've felt overlooked in life or love. The film is a reminder that it's never too late to start living on your own terms. It's a story about vulnerability, rediscovery, and the idea that it's never too late to open your heart.

How has your view on romance changed over the years?

Back in our day, we didn't have apps or access to this kind of dating culture. Whatever ways romance happened was considered just okay. [hamare zamane mein choice nahi tha jo sahi tha romance mein bhi sahi mana jata hai] We didn't have the mode to access dating apps. Therefore, if we wanted to meet a person in the city, it was difficult to meet as that culture didn't exist. However, it was appropriate in that zamana, where we would simply say main aapko pasand karta hoon. [I like you]. But now all those rules have changed drastically. Each generation is different, and I've learned a lot from observing that shift.

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